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Timely Tip #39
Let’s go
berry picking!
Whether you pick berries one by one from a bush or by the pint at the
store or farmers market, following these tips:
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Select
vividly colored, plump berries.
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Many
blueberry varieties typically have a frosted appearance.
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Strawberries should have a fresh green leafy cap attached.
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Ripe
raspberries separate freely from a central core, as they are picked.
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Avoid
berries which are shriveled or discolored.
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For
packaged berries, examine the box carefully for uniform ripeness. Berries do
not ripen further after picking.
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Also check
boxes for moldy fruit or juice stains.
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At home,
spread fragile berries, such as raspberries, in a single layer on a tray
before storing in the refrigerator. Plan to use within a day or two.
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Sturdier
berries like blueberries can be stored in pint or quart boxes in the
refrigerator for several days.
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Wash
berries just before use.
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Berries
freeze easily. Just wash, pat dry and place on a tray or shallow pan in the
freezer. When frozen hard, scoop into freezer bags, label and return to
freezer.
Berries are low in calories, high in fiber and phytochemicals; many are also
high in vitamin C.
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