Strawberries can be tricky to keep fresh, but there's a simple strawberry storage hack that could help them last longer - and it uses just one common kitchen ingredient: baking soda.
Why Baking Soda Works
Karissa Barker posted a video on Instagram demonstrating how to wash and keep fruit such as strawberries and blueberries to maximise their longevity. She referenced research from the University of Massachusetts which suggested that immersing your berries in a solution of water and baking soda can assist in eliminating dirt, bacteria, and even superficial pesticides from the fruit. This not only improves the eating quality of the berries but can also extend their lifespan, as you are removing certain bacteria that would otherwise contribute to their deterioration.
How to Use Baking Soda for Strawberries
Karissa suggested submerging your berries for 15 minutes in a solution of cold water and bicarbonate of soda, before draining the berries into a colander and washing off any remaining residue. Allow the berries to air dry or gently pat them with kitchen roll, then place them into an airtight container. She said: "Store in an airtight glass container for maximum freshness."
Those commenting on the post expanded on Karissa's tip, suggesting that bicarbonate of soda can occasionally leave strawberries with a softer texture. Should this occur with your fruit, vinegar can be substituted in place of bicarbonate of soda.
How to Store Strawberries for Maximum Freshness
If you are eating them the same day:
- Keep them at a cool room temperature if your kitchen is not warm.
- Leave them in a single layer if possible (a crowded punnet increases bruising).
- Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
If you are eating them in 2-5 days:
- Sort them: remove any mouldy or very soft strawberries immediately (one bad berry can spoil the rest).
- Line a container with kitchen paper (to absorb moisture).
- Arrange strawberries in a single layer where you can. If you must stack, put paper between layers.
- Store uncovered or loosely covered (you want airflow). If using a lidded container, do not seal it airtight.
- Keep them in the main part of the fridge, not the coldest back corner, where they can partially freeze and go mushy.
Optional vinegar bath to increase freshness:
Some people use a diluted vinegar rinse to reduce surface mould spores. This can work to extend the shelf life of your berries, but you must ensure they are properly dried before storing. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 3 parts water. Dip berries for 1–2 minutes, then rinse quickly with cold water. Dry extremely well (a salad spinner lined with a paper towel can help), then store using the fridge method above. It is often recommended not to wash berries until you are ready to eat them, as if they are not dried properly, this can make them spoil faster because of the added moisture.
