Fresh berries keep 2-3 days in the fridge; store them unwashed and remove crushed or moldy ones first. Frozen in a single layer, they keep 8-12 months for best quality.
Counterrefrigerate promptly
Fridge2–3 daysunwashed, in the crisper
Freezer8–12 monthsbest quality
Storage times from USDA, FoodSafety.gov, FDA and university extension services. Checked .
How long do berries last in the fridge?
2–3 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Can you freeze berries?
Yes. For best quality use it within 8–12 months. Best quality; safe indefinitely at 0°F.
- Wash, dry well and freeze in a single layer, then bag.
- Hull strawberries before freezing.
After thawing: Use thawed berries soon in smoothies, sauces or baking; they will be soft.
How to tell if berries has gone bad
- Mold or fuzz
- Mushy or leaking fruit
- Fermented smell
Bacteria that cause food poisoning don't always change the look or smell of food, so go by the storage times above. When in doubt, throw it out.
Questions people ask
Should I wash berries before refrigerating?
No. Store them unwashed and rinse just before eating.
Can I eat berries if one is moldy?
Remove the moldy berry and any touching it; discard the batch if mold has spread.