Strawberries, a beloved summer fruit in the UK, often spoil quickly due to mould and mushiness. However, a simple 60-second rinse with a common cupboard ingredient can significantly extend their shelf life, according to food expert Sophie Nahmad, lead recipe developer at Gousto.
The Vinegar Wash Method
Nahmad recommends soaking strawberries in a mixture of one part white vinegar to three parts water for 30 to 60 seconds. After draining, rinse them under fresh water and pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen roll or clean tea towel. Any residual moisture can promote mould growth. Store the strawberries in a refrigerator in a container lined with kitchen roll to absorb excess moisture.
White vinegar, available for as little as 80p per bottle, is a versatile household item that can also help preserve other berries like blueberries.
Expert Insight on Reducing Waste
“There's nothing more frustrating than opening a punnet of strawberries only to find they're already starting to spoil,” said Nahmad. “A quick vinegar wash takes less than a minute and can reduce mould spores that cause strawberries to deteriorate more quickly. It's a simple trick that can help you get more from your strawberries, whether you've picked them yourself or bought them from the supermarket.” She added that with many people enjoying strawberries during Wimbledon season, this method helps keep fruit fresher for longer and reduces waste.
Other Storage Tips
Bananas, another fruit prone to rapid spoilage, are best kept out of the fruit bowl altogether. A food hygiene expert from High Speed Training advises separating bananas from the bunch and storing them away from warm appliances to maintain prime freshness.
