As a haven for bargain hunters and savvy shoppers, Kmart has become a household name in Australia, offering a plethora of items that promise to make life easier and more convenient. Among these items is a $5 Berry Storage Container that has garnered attention from parents who are always on the lookout for practical kitchen solutions. This container, designed to wash, drain, and store berries all in one, seems like a dream come true for berry lovers. But before you rush to add it to your shopping cart, there’s a crucial warning from food safety experts that you need to hear.
Cheree Lawrence, a popular social media influencer known as @ohsobusymum, praised the item on her social media accounts, claiming it to be a must-have for families who adore berries. Her followers quickly echoed her enthusiasm, with comments ranging from ‘OMG, I need this’ to ‘Instantly adds to Kmart cart!’ The excitement was palpable, with many shoppers ready to embrace this seemingly ingenious product.
However, amidst the flurry of excitement, a critical voice of caution has emerged. Food safety experts have raised concerns that storing washed berries could actually be the ‘worst thing possible’ for their longevity. The issue at hand is that moisture can be a breeding ground for mould, and washing berries before storing them could lead to faster spoilage.
One ex-chef advised against washing berries until just before consumption, suggesting that moisture accelerates their deterioration. Instead, they recommended lining containers with paper towels and changing them daily to extend the berries’ shelf life. Another individual recommended storing berries in an airtight jar, like a Moccona coffee jar, to avoid introducing water that could trigger decay.
Some savvy consumers have found their own solutions, such as washing berries in vinegar to prolong their freshness. This method has been shared as a tip for keeping berries mould-free for a longer period.
Food Safety Plus confirms this advice, telling Yahoo Lifestyle that the best practice for berry storage is to keep them dry. They warn that even refrigerated, berries are likely to grow mould quickly if stored wet. The shelf life of berries, they say, will be significantly enhanced by storing them dry.
What methods have you found effective for keeping your berries and other fruits fresh for longer? Have you ever tried any unique storage tips or found a solution that works wonders? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below—let’s keep the conversation going!
Also read: Maximise freshness: Avoid these food storage pitfalls
Looks like an Updated Tupperware Container !!