How Long Do Blueberries Last? Blueberries can last up to 10 days when refrigerated, but the best flavor and the most nutrients will be present in berries that are eaten within a day or two of purchase.
Especially if placed in a bowl on display. The more exposure it has to air and sunlight, the more quickly it will spoil and lose its nutrients and flavor.
Blueberries by their nature are very delicate-that’s part of what makes them so good for people who have diabetes since they contain soluble fiber which helps control blood sugar levels by slowing down the conversion to sugar which then enters into your bloodstream. Basically blueberries are really packed with sweetness thanks to all that natural sugars found inside each one!
How to Choose Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in fiber, antioxidants and vitamins. They can be eaten fresh or processed for use in baking, cooking, freezing, canning and more. With so many types of blueberry – highbush, rabbiteye and southern mountain – it’s important to choose the type of blueberry that best meets your needs.
Highbush Blueberries – Highbush blueberries are the most commonly grown type of blueberry. These can be used in all types of recipes, whether fresh or processed. The highbush blueberry is typically sold as a potted plant and requires 150 to 200 chilling hours (about four to six weeks at 40°F). They require full sun or partial shade, will tolerate wet soils and drought well, but require regular irrigation.
Rabbiteye Blueberries – Rabbiteye blueberries are native to the southeast coastal areas of the United States. These can be used in all types of recipes, whether fresh or processed. The rabbiteye blueberry is typically sold as a potted plant and requires 400 to 500 chilling hours (about 10 weeks at 40°F). They require full sun, will tolerate wet soils and drought well, but require regular irrigation.
Southern Mountain Blueberries – Southern mountain blueberries are native to North America and produce larger fruit than other varieties. These plants will not grow in regions that receive cold winters since they require 300 chilling hours (about eight to ten weeks at 40°F). They require full sun and will not tolerate wet soils or drought.
How to Freeze Blueberries
Blueberries can be frozen at home. If you do not have enough blueberries to freeze, see if a neighbor or friend has extras that they would like to share!
Wash blueberries in cold water and drain thoroughly. Place berries on a cookie sheet or tray and place in freezer for two hours.
This step will prevent the berries from clumping together when placed into storage containers. Place frozen berries into airtight containers or freezer bags and store them in your freezer.
Blueberries can last up to one year in your freezer without loss of flavor, color, shape and texture. You may also choose to blanch the blueberries before freezing them for additional protection against loss of color and flavor.
To blanch berries, place washed berries in boiling water for 30 seconds. Cool the berries, drain and proceed as above.
