Strawberries are a beloved delicacy for many, especially during the hot summer months. They are not only delicious, but also rich in vitamins and antioxidants. But finding the best strawberries in the store can sometimes be a challenge.
Anneli Busch, department manager for fruit and vegetables at Ica Esplanaden in Stockholm, has over 20 years of experience in fruit and vegetables. She points out that sometimes there are strawberries that don’t quite deliver what they promise.
– There are many people who cheat about which country the strawberries come from. They can be German or Danish but are sold in Swedish boxes, she says News24.
To maximize your chances of finding the best strawberries, there are a few simple tricks to follow.
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The color and the smell
Color is one of the most important indicators of strawberry ripeness and flavor. Choose berries that are deep red without white or green spots. An even color indicates that the berries have ripened on the plant, resulting in a sweeter and more flavorful fruit.
– Avoid those that are bright and unripe. By taking a look at the strawberries, you can usually tell if they are bad. But you can always ask the staff to turn over the box, says Anneli Busch.
Also use your nose to choose the right one. If the berries have no scent at all, they may lack flavor. Avoid strawberries that smell yeasty or sour, which may indicate they are overripe or have begun to rot.
Sheets and packaging
Oskar Josefsson, is a food supplier at Raxo and delivers strawberries to several stores in the country. His best tip is to look extra closely at the leaves.
– They should look fresh and be green and nice, he says.
If the leaves are slightly wilted, it is possible that the strawberries have been in the box for quite some time.
If you buy strawberries that are bagged, check the underside of the bag for signs of mold or overripe fruit. Condensation inside the package can be a sign that the berries have started to rot.
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Photo: Jessica Gow/TTBuy during season
For the best taste and quality, buy strawberries during their season. In Sweden, this is usually from the end of May to the beginning of July. During the season, the berries are both fresher and more affordable.
– The most important thing is that the strawberries come from the first pick, says Oskar Josefsson.
He explains that those picked first have had the longest time to ripen. Those picked later in the season ripen faster due to the warmer weather.
Local cultivation and varieties
Both Anneli Busch and Oskar Josefsson emphasize the importance of buying locally grown strawberries. These are often fresher because they have not been transported long distances and they are harvested when they are more ripe, resulting in better flavor and quality.
According to Anneli Busch, the most common varieties in Sweden are Malvina, Rumba, Honeoye, Flair and Sonata.
– I think Malwina is always the best. It is deep red throughout the berry, says Oskar Josefsson.
He recommends that you can always ask the store staff if you can taste a strawberry before you buy.
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