Sort and Remove Damaged Berries: Inspect your blueberries upon purchase or harvest. Remove any soft, mushy, or moldy berries to prevent spoilage from spreading to the rest.
Avoid Washing Before Storage: Do not wash blueberries before storing them, as excess moisture can lead to faster spoilage. Instead, wash them just before consumption.
Use a Breathable Container: Store the blueberries in their original packaging or a breathable container. Line the bottom of the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture and place the blueberries on top.
Refrigerate: Place the container in the coldest part of your refrigerator, typically the back or crisper drawer. This cool environment slows down the ripening process and inhibits bacterial growth.
Check Periodically: Inspect the blueberries every few days and remove any that show signs of spoilage to maintain the freshness of the remaining berries.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you have excess blueberries, freeze them for long-term storage. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. Frozen blueberries can last for several months and are great for smoothies and baking.