How to Store Raspberries in the Fridge or Freezer

Fresh raspberries can last between two to three days under proper storage conditions in the fridge. After that, your berries will start to rot and turn moldy. Frozen raspberries have a six- to twelve-month shelf life when stored properly.

One of the main ways to store fresh raspberries is to keep them in the fridge. Here’s how:

• Inspect for mold. Check your berries for any mushy or moldy berries that could speed up the rotting process for the rest of the batch. Throw away any berries that have patches or mush or mold spores.
• Soak in a vinegar bath. Avoid rinsing your berries before storing them because the moisture can encourage spoilage. However, soaking your berries in a white vinegar solution before storing them can kill any bacteria and help extend their shelf life. Fill a large bowl with one part vinegar and eight parts cool water to make a vinegar bath. Swish the berries around in the solution for a minute or two. Rinse the berries in a colander under running water and pat them dry.
• Place in a vented container. The best way to store raspberries is in a breathable container with air holes so that they can breathe. The original container they came in is usually acceptable for storage, whether a plastic clamshell from the grocery store or a shallow cardboard container from the farmers’ market.
• Store near the front of the fridge. Storing berries near the front of your fridge will remind you to use them before they turn. Avoid placing your berries at the back of the fridge or in the veggie crisper drawer, where moisture can build up.
• Wash before use. Only wash your berries when you're ready to use them, not before storing them because the moisture can encourage spoiling. Wash your fresh berries under running water in a colander when you’re ready to use them. Pat your berries dry with a paper towel before use.

Another way to store raspberries is to freeze them, which can extend their natural shelf life up to a year. Follow this step-by-step process for freezing raspberries so that you can make your favorite raspberry recipes year-round.

• Rinse with cold water. Put your raspberries in a colander and rinse them off under a running cold tap. Lay them on paper towels to dry. Pat the raspberries dry with a towel to speed up the process.
• Flash freeze on a tray. Lay the raspberries on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet in a single layer so that each berry has space around it. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for one to two hours to flash freeze, so they don’t clump together in long-term storage.
• Store in an airtight container. Take the baking sheet out and place the flash-frozen berries in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep for up to a year. Label your container with the date of freezing for later use.
  
• Thaw and rinse before use. When it’s time to use your berries, leave them out to thaw at room temperature or rinse them under warm water to speed up the thawing process. Mix frozen raspberries with other frozen berries, such as blackberries and blueberries, and add them to smoothies or make ice cream.

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