Tips for Picking & Handling Fresh Blueberries

Whether you have visited Pack House Farm, another local pick-your-own farm, or are selecting berries at the grocery store, these tips will help you get the best berries this summer!

• Size doesn’t equal ripeness, it’s all about color! Ripe berries are deep blue-purple to blue-black in color.
• You may notice that some berries will have a cloudy appearance, called “bloom”. This film is a waxy silver-white substance that protects the berry. Bonus – it helps keep the berries juicy!
• Look for berries that are firm and smooth-skinned. When picking, leave those that the birds have pecked on for their snack!
• Blueberries will continue to ripen once picked, but only if they have already started turning blue. Let the green and pink ones wait a little longer.
• Reddish berries are not completely ripe, and may be bitter. These are best used in baking with additional sweetener. (Hello muffins, cakes, and pies!)
• Wash your berries just before eating or tossing in a recipe. 
• Get your berries into a refrigerator as soon as you can. An airtight container is recommended and always put a paper towel in to soak up any extra moisture.
• In the refrigerator, berries will keep for a week to 10 days.

Wishing you the berry best this summer!