A simple storage technique using a ventilated container can extend the shelf life of berries by up to 10 days, according to a recent test. The method involves transferring berries from their supermarket packaging into a specialised fruit storage container with ventilation holes, which allows air circulation and prevents moisture buildup.
The test compared three storage methods: the ventilated container, an airtight container with kitchen roll, and the original packaging with added kitchen roll. While all methods helped to some degree, the ventilated container proved most effective, keeping strawberries and blueberries fresh and mould-free for 10 days.
The container, which features an internal basket to drain excess moisture, costs around £4 from Dunelm and has received over 80 five-star ratings. It is compact enough to fit neatly in the fridge and can also be used for vegetables.
In contrast, the airtight container with kitchen roll kept raspberries and blueberries firm but left strawberries soggy after four days. The original packaging with kitchen roll also absorbed moisture but raspberries quickly turned soft.
Experts advise against washing fruit before storage, as added moisture accelerates spoilage. The success of the ventilated container highlights the importance of managing humidity to prolong freshness.
Blueberries remained firm across all three methods and were still edible after five to six days, but the ventilated container was the clear winner for extending their life to 10 days.
