Storing Strawberries in Mason Jars: Tips for Preservation

– This article provides a step-by-step guide on storing strawberries in mason jars in the fridge so they last weeks.
– The author mentions trying different methods of storing fresh berries and states that storing strawberries in mason jars is the most effective.
– The article lists the equipment needed to store strawberries in mason jars, including a metal lid, airtight jar, and a kitchen towel or clean paper towel.
– The article advises washing strawberries properly by filling a clean sink halfway with cold tap water and adding vinegar or produce wash to the water.
– The strawberries should be swished in the vinegar solution or sprayed with produce spray while in the water.
– The strawberries should be soaked in the vinegar bath for at least 5 minutes and then checked for soft spots or mold.
– Any bad berries should be removed and either eaten or composted.
– After 5 minutes, the strawberries should be swished again to remove any dirt or debris.
– The strawberries should be dried on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels in a single layer before cutting.
– Washing strawberries can remove up to 95% pesticide residue, but buying organic strawberries or growing your own is recommended for complete pesticide-free strawberries.
– Strawberries can be stored as whole berries, cut in half, or sliced in glass containers.
– Storing whole strawberries without cutting them in a glass mason jar can further extend their shelf life.
– A 64oz mason jar is recommended for storing strawberries.
– Properly stored strawberries in mason jars can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
– Factors that may reduce storage life include purchasing old strawberries, presence of mold spores, winter-season strawberries, storing wet strawberries, keeping strawberries at room temperature for too long, and a too warm fridge.
– Airtight containers, including plastic containers with tight-fitting lids, can be used if mason jars are not available.
– It is recommended to wash the strawberries in a large bowl with a solution of ¼ cup distilled white vinegar (5% acidity) and 10 cups of cool water.
– The strawberries should be soaked in the solution for exactly 2 minutes to avoid fermentation.
– After soaking, the strawberries should be rinsed off in a colander and dried on a clean towel.
– It is advised to use fresh water every time the produce is washed.
– The strawberries should be checked periodically for dryness and rotated if needed on the towel.
– Once completely dry, the strawberries can be placed in a gallon-size glass jar lined with a piece of paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth to prevent staining.
– The glass jar filled with strawberries can be stored in the fridge.
– The strawberries can remain fresh for up to three weeks when stored in this manner.

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