One of my most favorite fruits in the world are blackberries! Blackberries are not only the perfect summer treat, but they are considered the holy grail of berries and make a great healthy snack because they are low in calories but are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

Add this sweet and tart treat to your favorite parfait, in a berry smoothie, or snack on them solo as a tasty and healthy food option.

Because blackberries are seasonal, stocking up on blackberries when they’re fresh and on sale can help you prepare healthy recipes without having to run back to the store. However, blackberries can only last for a couple of days before they turn moldy if they aren’t stored properly. This is why learning the proper way of storing blackberries can not only keep them fresh longer, but also allow you to save money and reduce your food waste in the long run.

So today, I’m sharing a guide on how to store blackberries and extend their shelf life.

How To Store Blackberries

Step 1. Grocery store

Getting the most usage out of your blackberries so they stay fresh starts with the quality of berries you pick out at the grocery store. You’ll want to be sure to pick out fresh blackberries that are bright, uniform color and skip those that look dull and darkened. Also, Turn the plastic container upside down and check for berries that have been crushed or moldy.

Step 2. Washing and drying

Before washing your fresh blackberries, remove stems and leaves. Unlike with many fruits, when you rinse blackberries, you don’t have to use distilled vinegar (although you certainly can), it’s best to do so in plain water so there’s no vinegar taste remaining. After washing your blackberries, we’ll want to make sure we dry them properly. Spread them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined baking sheet or tray. While they are in a layer on a baking sheet, gently pat the berries dry with paper towels to absorb excess moisture.

Step 3. Use a vented storage container

Choosing the right container is one of the most important steps for storage. After patting the blackberries dry, you’ll want to keep them stored in a vented storage container. It’s important to keep your blackberries in a container that allows them to get air and breathe in order to keep them fresh for longer. Line the storage container with a paper towel then pour your blackberries gently to avoid them getting mushy. Next place in a refrigerator to preserve its shelf life.

Step 4. Store away from fruits producing ethylene gas

Did you know some fruits are sensitive to ethylene gas? Climacteric fruits like apples, avocado, bananas and tomatoes ripen after harvest and emit ethylene gas as they ripen. It’s better to keep these types of fruit away from non-climacteric fruit like berries, grapes, and watermelon to maintain freshness. Fruits that are ripe when harvested (like blackberries) are sensitive to ethylene gas. If you store them away from climacteric fruits, you can help them slow the ripening process so that they stay fresh longer and preserve their shelf life.

Step 5. Freeze them

Frozen blackberries work great in smoothies or homemade ice cream, and can last up to a year long! To freeze blackberries, be sure to remove any moldy or rotten berries, then rinse and gently pat dry. You can then layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until your berries are completely frozen. Then finally transfer them into a freezer safe storage bag or container.

Looking for more yummy and healthy valentine’s day treats like these? We’ve got you covered. You can also get a load of these great keto fruits and vegetables options.