Note: Do not wash strawberries until ready to eat. Rinse strawberries gently but thoroughly under cool running water, drain in a clean strainer, and pat dry with a clean paper towel.

Picking from a garden: Strawberries do not ripen after they’re picked, so it’s important to pick when the berry is fully red, without green or white areas.

Selecting at the store: Choose glossy, bright red berries. Avoid fruit with signs of spoilage, shriveling, mushiness, or a dull appearance.

Storing fresh berries: Store in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator in a clam-shell container or partially opened plastic bag.

How to Freeze Strawberries– Refrigerating or freezing is the best way to store berries: Freezing them is an easy way to make them last longer while keeping their nutritional value.

1. After rinsing, gently blot dry.
2. Slice stem off at top of berry.
3. Place cut side down on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper.
4. Place uncovered in freezer for 24 hours.
5. Transfer strawberries to a freezer bag or container.
6. Frozen strawberries can be stored frozen for several months.

(California Strawberry Commission, n.d.) For more information and recipes, visit www.Californiastrawberries.com