Step-by-step instructions on how to store blueberries, keeping them fresh and sweet for weeks! The secret is a paper towel! Sort and remove damaged berries, refrigerate in a dry container, and wash just before enjoying. Also includes directions on how to freeze blueberries.
We love blueberries, but we don’t like mushy softened blueberries. Besides baking with them (like yummy blueberry scones, blueberry pie and mini blueberry muffins), and making blueberry smoothies, my family just loves snacking on them.
Here’s my favorite method on storing blueberries to keep them fresh for 2-3 weeks. No more buying them from the grocery store and having them go bad in a few days!
Remember, it’s essential to inspect the blueberries periodically during storage and remove any spoiled ones to prevent spoilage from spreading to the rest of the batch.
Do blueberries last longer in the fridge or on the counter?
Blueberries last longer when stored in the refrigerator rather than on the counter. The cool temperature of the fridge helps slow down the ripening process and inhibits the growth of bacteria and mold, extending their shelf life.
Do blueberries keep better washed or unwashed?
It’s best not to wash blueberries before storing them, as moisture can accelerate spoilage. Wait to wash them just before consuming.
How to Store
Sort and remove damaged berries: Inspect the blueberries and remove any soft, mushy, or moldy berries. This helps prevent the spread of spoilage to other berries. Do not wash before storing.
Keep them dry: Line a breathable container (no sealed lid), such as the box or package the berries came in, or a large plastic container with a paper towel on the bottom. The paper towel will absorb any excess moisture, and the air circulation will deter mold.
Place the blueberries on top of the paper towel and close the lid.
Note: If you are storing berries in large quantities, such as if you’re picking berries from the garden or just came back from the berry farm, make sure to put them in a shallow layer so that the weight of the berries doesn’t crush each other. You can use a large container or a bowl for this.
Store in the coldest part of the fridge: Place the blueberries in the coldest section of your refrigerator, typically the crisper drawer or the back of the fridge.
Enjoy these fresh blueberries for 2-3 weeks! I hope you liked this food saving tip. Hope’s more that you might like:
How to Store Lettuce to Last for a Month
How to Store and Freeze Strawberries
How to Store Cilantro To Make It Last For Weeks
The Best Ways To Store Bananas
Can I freeze blueberries?
You sure can! If you have a surplus of blueberries and want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them for long-term storage.
- Spread the berries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
2. Freeze them until they are firm.
3. Once frozen, transfer the berries to a sealed container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer. Frozen blueberries can last for several months and taste great in smoothies!
Pin for later:
How to Store and Freeze Fresh Blueberries
PrintIngredients
- blueberries
Instructions
- DO NOT WASH THE BLUEBERRIES. Inspect the blueberries and remove any soft, mushy, or moldy berries.
- Line a breathable container, such as the box or package the berries came in, or a large plastic container with a paper towel on the bottom. Place the blueberries on top of the paper towel and close the lid.
- Place the blueberries in the coldest section of your refrigerator, typically the crisper drawer or the back of the fridge. Inspect the blueberries periodically during storage and remove any spoiled ones. Enjoy these fresh blueberries for 2-3 weeks! Wash blueberries before eating.
How to freeze for long-term storage:
- Spread the berries in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Place in freezer and freeze until they are firm.
- Once frozen, transfer the berries to a sealed container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer. Frozen blueberries can last for several months.
Marie-Louise Ms. Labrie says
I learned how to preserve and freeze green beans and blueberries. They are wonderful. Thank you
Pamela Reed says
So happy to hear this! 🙂 Enjoy your green beans and blueberries!