Classically trained chef Lola – of Chef Lola’s Kitchen – warned against a common blueberry storage mistake that can promote mould growth.
When buying a pack of blueberries at your local supermarket, you may know they need to be put into the fridge.
However, it’s where you place them in the fridge that could be causing issues.
While blueberries are highly perishable, you may (wrongly) believe they should be stored in the crisper drawer inside the fridge.
The crisper drawer, which typically houses fruits and vegetables, is no place for blueberries.
Chef Lola explained why: “Avoid using the crisper drawer where air circulation may not be sufficient as blueberries belong to the low-humidity club.”
When stored in a cool area of the fridge, but not the crisper drawer, blueberries can remain fresh for up to two weeks.
Other measures are required, however, for the berries to last as long as a fortnight.
The first place to start is the blueberries you choose to purchase at the store; they need to be “plump and firm”.
Chef Lola advised: “Avoid berries that have a dull or shrivelled appearance, which can be a sign of age or decay. They have to look firm, fresh, and taut.
“Always check the bottom of the container for any signs of mould or excess juiciness, which can indicate spoilage or crushed berries.”
Then once you get the blueberries home, you need to “remove any damaged or mouldy berries” from the packaging.
Chef Lola added: “Transfer them to a clean, dry container lined with paper towels. This helps absorb excess moisture and prevents mould growth.”
Blueberries must also not be washed before being stored in the fridge as this excess moisture will only accelerate the production of mould growth.
“Rinse them just before consumption instead,” said Chef Lola, who also suggested freezing blueberries for maximum longevity.
“Freezing is the best way to store blueberries in the long term,” she reiterated. “When it comes to freezing blueberries, the way to get the best results is to first spread them out on a baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other, and freeze them overnight.
“This way, the berries don’t stick together, making it easier to store them. After freezing, transfer the berries to a freezer bag or container. Frozen blueberries can last between six to eight months.”
