When it comes to raspberries, there are some “golden rules” to follow to ensure that they are fully enjoyed and people get the most out of the fruit. The berries are packed with the most nutritional benefits when they are “perfectly ripe,” which is why it is also recommended that they be eaten within one to two days of refrigeration.
There are two important things to remember when eating berries, and for those with a sweet tooth, one of those things will ensure that the fruit tastes even sweeter.
Of course, washing the berries is the first thing to do. However, raspberries are more “delicate” than most fruits, and therefore, they should be rinsed gently with cool water to avoid ruining them.
Now, according to British Berry Growers, the industry body that represents 95% of all the UK’s commercial soft fruit growers, once the berries have been rinsed, they should be left to come to room temperature before being eaten, as doing this “enhances their natural sweetness”.
Eating raspberries while they’re at their “peak” is highly beneficial for your health. Rhiannon Lambert, award-winning nutritionist and British Berry Growers ambassador, said: “Raspberries are a natural source of fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants, with some of these nutrients reaching peak levels as the fruit fully ripens.
“Storing them correctly can help slow nutrient loss and maintain freshness for longer. By following these tips, you can help reduce food waste while enjoying raspberries at their best in both flavour and nutritional value.”
The industry body shared tips on how to maximise the freshness of the fruit. Raspberries should be kept in their original punnet, which is designed to permit airflow and reduce moisture buildup. They should also be stored at the front and centre of fridges, ideally at temperatures between 0C and 1C.
Avoid storing them at the back of the fridge as this can cause them to dry out quicker, and keeping them visible will help remind you to eat them before they spoil.
Raspberries are at their best within two days of being in the fridge. However, if you do not plan to eat them straight away, they can be popped in the freezer and saved to use in a smoothie.