How long do blueberries last in the fridge?

In this article, we will answer the question “How long do blueberries last in the fridge?”, and how to identify spoiled blueberries.

How long do blueberries last in the fridge?

Whole blueberries last 1-2 weeks in the fridge if stored correctly. Whole blueberries can only last a day out of the fridge. While sliced or cut blueberries will go bad after 2 hours if left unrefrigerated. (1,2)

Frozen blueberries will last much more, and it can be useful for extending their shelf life, as they will last for about 8-12 months. (1)

What are the factors that affect the storage of blueberries?

The main factors that affect the shelf life of blueberries are temperature, humidity, and handling;

  • Storage temperature: Is the most crucial environmental factor influencing the post-harvest lifespan of fresh fruits, primarily due to its significant impact on the rates of biological reactions, including respiration (9). 
  • Humidity: The blueberries must be kept in a relatively dry environment. An environment too dry will lead to water loss, and an environment with too high humidity may lead to condensation and the enhanced growth of pathogens (9). 
  • Handling: It is important to wash the blueberries properly and manipulate them with clean hands and utensils to avoid microbial contamination due to unhygienic conditions. (8)

How to tell If the blueberries have gone bad?

Here are some signs of spoilage in blueberries.

Discoloration

If you observe any significant browning, darkening, or dull appearance, it is a clear indication that the blueberries have spoiled. If you notice any notable alterations you should discard the berries. 

Mold growth 

White, green, or any other colored mold growing on the berries is an obvious sign of spoilage. Berries that are contaminated with molds contain mycotoxins that can cause severe food poisoning. (3)

Texture and softness

Mushy, overly soft, wrinkled, or dehydrated berries have gone bad and you should get rid of them right away. (4)

Foul smell

If the berries give off a foul or rotten smell, you should discard them, it may be an indicator of spoilage or fermentation. . Undesirable taste

If the berries are past their expiry or best-by and there are no visual signs of spoilage but you are unsure whether you should discard or consume them, your best bet is to taste them.  If the taste is off, you should discard them. .

How to properly store blueberries?

To properly store blueberries, follow these guidelines. 

Do not wash them before storing them 

Blueberries are quite perishable and moisture will accelerate spoilage. Excess moisture can lead to mold growth and spoilage. Molds will produce mycotoxins that could cause foodborne illnesses. (5) 

Only rinse the blueberries just before eating or using them. Moreover, washing and rinsing also strip the berries off of their protective bloom, which prevents the berries from moisture loss and decay.

Check the batch properly before storage 

Remove the bitter stems of the blueberries before storage. Moreover, remove the rotten berries so that they don’t contaminate and spoil the whole lot during storage.

Always opt for plump, firm, and brightly colored blueberries. Steer clear of containers with crushed or moldy berries. Prioritize selecting fresh, healthy fruit for the best quality and taste.

Refrigerate the blueberries 

If the blueberries aren’t to be consumed within a few days of purchase, store them in the fridge. Put them in an air-tight container and store them in the fridge for 1-2 weeks. (1). 

Freeze the blueberries

Freezing is a good option if you want to store your blueberries for a longer period of time or if you have a large quantity to store. Freezing them will extend its shelf life to 8-12 months. (1)

Can you freeze blueberries?

Yes, you can freeze blueberries. While most fruits can be frozen successfully, it’s important to note that the quality of the frozen product may vary depending on factors such as the type of fruit, its stage of maturity, and the chosen packaging method (6).

Generally, the flavor is well retained by freezing preservation. Texture may be kind of softer than that of fresh fruit. (7)

Blueberries can last for about 8-12 months when kept in a plastic freezer bag in the freezer. (1)

To freeze blueberries, start by thoroughly washing them with water. Pat dry the berries with paper towels. Spread them in a single layer onto a baking tray or sheet, put the tray into the freezer, and let the berries pre-freeze. 

Transfer the frozen blueberries to a freezer bag, and remove as much air as possible from it.

Frozen blueberries can be blended easily to make shakes and smoothies. If they are to be used in baking, wash them so they do not leak too much juice into the batter.

Other FAQs about Blueberries that you may be interested in.

How long do blueberries last out of the fridge?

How long do frozen blueberries last once thawed?

Can you refreeze blueberries?

Conclusion

In this article, we will answer the question “How long do blueberries last in the fridge?”, and how to identify spoiled blueberries.

References

  1. United States Department of Agriculture. Food Keeper.
  2. United States Department of Agriculture. How Temperatures Affect Food. Food Safety and Inspection Service. 
  3. Pleadin, J., Frece, J., Markov, K. Mycotoxins in food and feed. Adv Food Nutr Res.
  4. Miller, W.R., McDonald, R.E., Melvin, C.F., Munroe, K.A. Effect of Package Type and Storage Time-temperature on Weight Loss, Firmness, and Spoilage of Rabbiteye Blueberries. American Society for Horticultural Science. 
  5. Drusch, S., Ragab, W. Mycotoxins in fruits, fruit juices, and dried fruits. J Food Prot. 
  6. Garden-Robinson, J. Freezing Fruits. North Dakota State University. 
  7. Andress, E.L., Harrison, J.A. Preserving Food: Freezing Fruit. University of Georgia. National Center for Home Food Preservation.
  8. Food and Drug Administration. Selecting and Serving Produce Safely.
  9. Kraśniewska, K., Ścibisz, I., Gniewosz, M., Mitek, M., Pobiega, K., & Cendrowski, A. (2017). Effect of Pullulan Coating on Postharvest Quality and Shelf-Life of Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.). Materials, 10(8), 965.

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