How Long Blueberries Last In The Refrigerator (And How To Tell If They've Gone Bad) - Tasting Table

"Summer arrives, and suddenly, you've got a bowl of blueberries in the fridge. At their peak, they can do just about anything, gracing all of your favorite blueberry recipes with their sweet-tart goodness. That ripeness only sticks around for a certain time frame, however. Even if you refrigerate the berries, it's still crucial to know exactly how long they last and, subsequently, when it's time to throw them out."

"In the fridge, proper storage can keep your blueberries fresh for about 10 to 14 days. Freezing the berries will extend their shelf life for up to 10 months. Although if you want to enjoy frozen blueberries at their peak, do it within the first 6 months. If you notice the blueberries turning overripe, don't make the wasteful mistake of tossing them out. Utilize them for drinks and baked goods instead."

"You may notice the most obvious telltale sign of all: mold. Fuzzy, little white spots, sometimes covered in slime and accompanied by mushiness, can appear on the exterior of the berries, indicating they've been exposed to moisture and are prone to spoilage. Another physical trait you might spot is wrinkly skin, often caused by severe dehydration. However, since it could also be a sign of spoilage or a harmful disease, it's best to discard the infected berries."

"Storing fruits properly to ensure they stay fresh can go a long way in maintaining food safety for your household and reducing waste. The most important thing to know when storing blueberries is that moisture is their number one enemy, as it can cause them to rot quickly and develop mold without proper air circulation. This means you shouldn't wash them the moment you take them out of the grocery bag."

Proper refrigeration keeps blueberries fresh for about 10 to 14 days. Freezing extends shelf life up to 10 months, with peak quality best within six months. Overripe berries can be repurposed for drinks and baked goods rather than discarded. Mold appears as fuzzy white spots, slime, and mushiness, while wrinkly skin may indicate severe dehydration or spoilage; infected berries should be discarded. Moisture and poor air circulation accelerate rot and mold growth. Avoid washing blueberries immediately after purchase to preserve their natural wax coating and prolong freshness. Proper storage reduces waste and protects household food safety.

Read at Tasting Table