How to clean strawberries and make them last longer –

A doubt that many people have is how to clean the strawberry. The fruit, full of flavonoids beneficial to our health, also tends to contain a lot of pesticides. Therefore, hygiene is essential.

WHEN IS THE STRAWBERRY SEASON AND WHY DOES IT MATTER

Harvest time depends on the cultivar and the climate in the growing region, ranging from April to October in hot regions, and may extend to December in colder regions, such as southern Brazil. It is always best to buy the fruit when it is “in season” as this means less pesticides.

STRAWBERRY BENEFITS

Strawberries are full of vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. Among the nutrients, anthocyanins and ellagic acid stand out, which confer other health benefits, such as combating skin aging, helping to prevent cardiovascular diseases, improving mental capacity, preventing cancer and helping to fight inflammation. according to a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, consumption of flavonoids is associated with lower concentrations of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) in the body. This protein is synthesized in the liver and works as a sensitive marker of inflammation (the higher it is, the greater the inflammation), which is now considered one of the best tools for detecting cardiovascular risk.

There are about twelve species of strawberry and all are rich in fiber, anthocyanins, ellagic acid, vitamin C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc and vitamins B2 and B6. More than 90% of strawberries are made up of water, which is why they are low in calories: a 100 g portion has only 30 calories.

– (Mônica Wagner/)

HOW TO CLEAN STRAWBERRY PROPERLY

Step 1: Place the strawberries in a large bowl and wash them with 1 tablespoon of vinegar in 1 liter of water.

Step 2: Let the fruit sit in the bath for 10 minutes, gently moving it around to dislodge any dirt and allowing the vinegar to kill mold spores and bacteria.

Important: do not remove the leaves from the strawberry! They help preserve the fruit longer.

Step 3: Rinse under running water, rubbing well with your fingers around the leaves, so you guarantee a more complete hygiene. Then drain the strawberries in a sieve.

Step 4: Pat the strawberries dry by gently wrapping them in a paper towel.

Step 5: Store in a closed container lined with dry paper towels. This will make the fruit last longer.