Summer berries are one of the most refreshing snacks to eat during the hot weather, but it is a big waste when they become covered in furry white mould only days after being bought.
Strawberries, raspberries, blackcurrants and blueberries often become mouldy as berries have a very high water content which attracts bacteria to them, which can lead to berries spoiling quickly.
However, Nicole Modic, a cookbook author and founder of Kale Junkie has shared that she has figured out a food storage method to keep berries fresh for weeks so you do not have to waste money buying more fruit.
Nicole said: “Here’s nothing worse than buying a fresh container of berries, only for them to spoil just a day or two later. So, I’m excited to introduce you to this hack that will extend the lifetime of your berries and keep them fresher for longer.
“This hack is super easy to do, and will make sure that you have berries that stay fresh for
How to keep summer berries fresh for two weeks longer
You will need:
- White vinegar
- A large bowl
- Paper towels
- Glass container with lid
Method:
The secret to keeping berries fresh is simple white vinegar, which may seem strange but this kitchen staple has antimicrobial properties that can kill mould spores and bacteria.
The vinegar can wash away any contamination on supermarket berries to help extend their shelf life, and it will not cause your berries to have a vinegary taste if you get the timing right.
All have to do is add one part vinegar to three parts water to a large bowl, then add your summer berries.
Set a timer and allow the berries to soak for exactly 10 minutes to get rid of bacteria.
After the 10 minutes are up, strain the vinegar water from the bowl and use a paper towel to pat the berries dry. Make sure the berries are completely dry otherwise, this food storage hack may not work.
When the berries have dried, line the bottom of a glass container with paper towels, then add the berries to the container and add another paper towel sheet on top of the berries.
Once prepared, place the berries in the fridge where they will keep fresh for much longer than they normally would.
Nicole said: “Store your berries in the fridge, and they should stay good for up to two weeks!”
This simple storage hack works once the berries are completely cleaned, the paper towels will absorb any excess moisture from the berries to keep them mould-free.
A glass container such as a mason jar is recommended as they usually have better seals than plastic containers to help control the humidity, which will also prevent mould and keep berries fresh for much longer.
