How Long Do Blueberries Last In the Refrigerator: Blueberries are one of the most popular fresh fruit that is found in the spring and summer seasons. This fruit is widely preferred because not only is it sweet and delicious, but eating it is effortless. Just wash them, pluck them off the stem, eat and devour the juicy taste of the blueberries.
When we talk about how long do blueberries remain fresh then if they are to be consumed right away then they can last 2-3 days on the kitchen counter without getting stale. However, you can also keep them in the refrigerator for about 8-10 days (depending on how you store the blueberries). Lastly, if you want to increase the life span of blueberries then you can always freeze them and keep them in the freezer for 6-8 months.
So folks, if you want to learn more about how long you can keep blueberries in the refrigerator and most importantly how to make them last longer then this article is definitely for you!
Contents
Which Blueberries Should You Buy?
If you’re new to grocery shopping then you might want to pay attention to this specific point. There would be a pile of blueberries for you to choose from in the store. Now your task is to select the best one.
Here is what you should look out for; 3 simple yet crucial points.
Texture: Pick up the blueberries and touch them to see if they are not soft or mushy. If they are then they won’t last long in the refrigerator. Also, don’t get blueberries that are withered out or wrinkled. They too would go bad in a short period. Select smooth and plump blueberries.
Color: Steer clear from red blueberries because they won’t be fully ripped and would probably taste raw. Dark blue or purple blueberries taste the best!
Smell: A short sniff and you’ll be able to tell if the blueberries are stale. Don’t pick those! However, if you’re still unsure then you can always ask the staff if you can taste one from the stem.
Let’s get started on the part that how long do blueberries last? If you’re one of those people who like to keep the groceries on the counter and put them away after a few hours then we recommend that you tend to the blueberries (in fact any fresh fruit or refrigerated item) right away!
How Long Do Blueberries Last on the Kitchen Counter?
Blueberries last on the kitchen counter for about 2-3 days maximum, which too depends on if you have kept them properly.
Take the blueberries out of the grocery bag; put them in a big bowl so that air can pass through them. This process is very important as mold can grow on the blueberries if kept in a hot and humid place and the whole bunch would get ruined.
Washing the Blueberries
If you plan on eating the blueberries right away then rinse them before eating. However, if you’re only consuming one or two bunches of blueberries then do not wash all of them. Separate the blueberries you wish to eat and only wash those. Rest you can keep in the refrigerator.
How To Make Blueberries Last Longer In the Refrigerator?
Blueberries stay perfectly fine in the fridge for 8-10 days but that too depends on certain factors.
Keep the Blueberries Dry
This is the repetition of the previous points that if you’re not eating blueberries right away then immediately store them in a cool place and do not wash them.
Rinsing them and keeping them in a humid area would lead to bacteria accumulation on the blueberries and the whole bunch would not be fit to be consumed.
Choosing the Perfect Container
You cannot toss the whole bunch of blueberries in the fridge as it is! They need to be stored and kept in a proper container.
Do not select an airtight container; choose a breathable one so air can circulate through the box.
Put a Paper Towel
On the surface of the container, place a paper towel and put the blueberries on top. This way any moisture or water that does accumulate on the blueberries is absorbed and the fruit won’t become all mushy.
Do not keep in the Refrigerator Drawer
Several fridges come with compartments in which you can store fruits, vegetables, or poultry separately. However, avoid keeping blueberries in any drawer; this way the fruit would get a sufficient amount of air and won’t become rotten.
Keeping the Blueberries Last Longer In the Refrigerator
Many individuals buy blueberries in bulk usually because purchasing any item in a large quantity is cheaper. However, you can’t keep all the blueberries in the refrigerator because the maximum they would last is 10 days.
Thus, the best option is freezing blueberries if you want them to last longer.
Follow the steps to store blueberries in the freezer:
Step 1: Place a baking sheet on the tray.
Step 2: Put blueberries on the tray. Spread them apart and make sure they are completely dry.
Step 3: Keep the tray in the freezer overnight.
Step 4: Take a zip lock bag and transfer the blueberries into that bag.
Step 5: Keep in the freezer for 6-8 months.
Now that you have frozen blueberries, the question is how to use them. It’s a very straightforward procedure!
Defrosting Frozen Blueberries
Keep Them Outside
The zip lock bag in which you have kept the blueberries; simply take out the bag at night and you can use the blueberries in the morning.
Keep the Bag in Cold Water
At times an emergency can arise; guests coming over and you need to make a blueberry dessert or you’re just craving some blueberries. In such a scenario, fill a tub with cold water and place the frozen blueberries bag in the water. The blueberries would be defrosted within 2 hours.
This Season Stock the Refrigerator with Blueberries
Now that you know how long do blueberries last in the fridge, take advantage of the spring season and eat as many blueberries as you can. Make desserts, experiment with new recipes, or eat them as they are; enjoy blueberries to the fullest!