All About Blueberries
Your complete guide to blueberries - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Blueberries Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for blueberries in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
fresh, unwashed in refrigerator5-10 days (up to 2 weeks if very fresh and stored optimally)
Signs of Spoilage
Mold (fuzzy white, gray, or blue spots), soft/mushy texture, shriveled appearance, dull or darker color, sticky film on the surface, sour or fermented smell.
How to Check
Visual: Look for any signs of mold, shriveling, or discoloration. Touch: Gently squeeze a few berries; they should be firm. If they are soft, squishy, or sticky, they are likely spoiled. Smell: Fresh blueberries have a mild, sweet aroma. A sour, alcoholic, or off-putting smell indicates spoilage.
Storage Tips
Do not wash blueberries until just before you plan to eat them, as moisture accelerates spoilage. Store them in their original clamshell container or transfer to a breathable container (like a colander lined with a paper towel) to allow air circulation and absorb excess moisture. Remove any visibly spoiled berries immediately to prevent mold from spreading to others.
fresh, washed in refrigerator2-4 days
Signs of Spoilage
Mold (fuzzy white, gray, or blue spots), soft/mushy texture, sticky film on the surface, sour or fermented smell. Spoilage signs will appear more quickly due to added moisture.
How to Check
Visual: Check for mold, especially in crevices. Touch: Berries will quickly become soft and mushy. Smell: A sour or fermented smell is a strong indicator of spoilage.
Storage Tips
It's generally not recommended to wash blueberries until just before use. If you must wash them ahead of time, ensure they are thoroughly dried (e.g., with a salad spinner or paper towels) before storing them in a loosely covered container in the refrigerator to minimize moisture build-up.
frozen6-12 months (for best quality, safe indefinitely at 0°F / -18°C)
Signs of Spoilage
Freezer burn (dry, discolored patches like grayish or brownish spots), excessive ice crystals or a solid block of ice (may indicate thawing and refreezing or poor packaging), off-smell/taste after thawing (sour or fermented).
How to Check
Visual: Look for signs of freezer burn or unusual discoloration. After thawing: Smell the berries; they should have a fresh, fruity scent. Any sour or off-smell means they've gone bad. Texture after thawing: While thawed berries will be softer than fresh, they shouldn't be completely mushy or slimy.
Storage Tips
Wash and thoroughly dry blueberries before freezing. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (2-4 hours). This prevents them from clumping together. Once frozen, transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date. Thawed blueberries are best used in smoothies, baking, or sauces, as their texture will be softer than fresh.