Strawberries are a summer staple, but they often spoil before their use-by date due to moisture trapped in plastic packaging. However, Shari Fitzpatrick, the cook behind chocolate strawberry company Shari's Berries, has revealed a simple method to keep them fresh for up to two weeks: washing them in a small amount of vinegar.
"One of the great things about vinegar is that it destroys harmful bacteria so bathing your strawberries in it will keep them fresh longer," Fitzpatrick said. "And don't worry about your berries tasting like vinegar. You'll be washing it off."
The vinegar method
Vinegar contains acetic acid, which is naturally antibacterial and eliminates mould spores before they can grow. It cleanses the surface of the strawberries, removing dirt, germs, and spores, significantly reducing the likelihood of spoilage. However, vinegar cannot reverse mould once it has started developing, so it is best to wash strawberries on the same day you buy them.
To prepare the solution, mix 360ml of water with 60ml of white vinegar in a measuring jug. The ratio should be roughly one part vinegar to three parts water; adjust the quantity as needed depending on the number of strawberries.
How to store properly
Place the strawberries in a large bowl or basin and pour the vinegar solution over them. Let them soak for five minutes, then drain in a colander and rinse thoroughly under the tap. Lay the strawberries out on paper towels to dry completely.
Once dry, line a food container with paper towels and place the strawberries inside. The paper towels absorb excess moisture that seeps from the fruit, reducing the risk of mould. Stored in the fridge, the strawberries should stay plump and juicy for up to two weeks.
