Danielle Clark, from Mayberry Farm, has shared a simple way to make strawberries last longer
Strawberries often turn into a mushy mess or develop mould just days after purchase, prompting a swift consumption to avoid waste.
Yet, there’s a nifty trick to stretch your pennies further and slash food waste, as it appears many are bungling the storage of strawberries. Danielle Clark from Mayberry Farm has let slip that giving strawberries a good rinse before popping them in the fridge can significantly prolong their life.
She advised: “An easy way to extend the shelf-life of those sweet, seasonal strawberries? Simply take a dip in some specially crafted water bath one part white vinegar and three parts H2O.”
It might sound odd, but bathing strawberries in a concoction of water and white vinegar can annihilate surface bacteria, ensuring they remain fresh for an extended time, reports the Express. Due to their high moisture content, strawberries are prone to bacterial attraction and subsequent mould formation shortly after being bought.
Vinegar, with its antimicrobial prowess, is capable of exterminating both bacteria and mould spores, while also cleansing any residual dirt clinging to the strawberries.
How to keep strawberries fresher for longer
To keep your strawberries fresher for longer, all you need is to dunk them in a mix of cool water and a dash of white vinegar for about two minutes. It’s crucial to set a timer and avoid soaking strawberries for too long, as they might pick up a vinegary taste, but this won’t happen if it’s just for a few minutes.
After giving the strawberries a good wash, let them air dry on your kitchen counter before patting them thoroughly with a paper towel. Leaving any moisture on the strawberries can lead to bacteria and mould growth once they’re tucked away in the fridge.
Danielle advised: “The most important thing when it comes to storing strawberries is making sure they are dry.”
She added: “After quickly draining them off and drying as much excess liquid with paper towels or even a salad spinner, store your berries away in an airtight container for future snacking!”
Once the strawberries are bone-dry, pop them into an airtight container with a paper towel to soak up any stray dampness, ensuring they stay fresh and perky for longer. Ditching their original plastic packaging for an airtight container with a snug lid will shield your strawberries from fridge condensation and keep the dreaded mould at bay.
Strawberries given this VIP treatment can stay fresh for an extra five to seven days, but if you’re aiming for longevity, freezing is the way to go. Danielle suggested: “Transfer the berries into an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to six months. Frozen berries are perfect for smoothies and baking recipes like strawberry jam bars or muffins.”
