On Thu, 05 May 2005 07:47:30 -0400, Steve Calvin
wrote:

What's the best way to store them for a few days and how long should
they last? In a bag, open air, refrig, counter?

From: http://www.cannamoreorchard.com/products/

Tips for Storing Strawberries

* Berries to be used immediately may be picked any time, but if
you plan to hold the fruit for a few days, try to pick in the early
morning or on cool, cloudy days. Berries picked during the heat of the
day become soft, are easily bruised, and will not keep well.
* Avoid placing the picked berries in the sun any longer than
necessary. It is better to put them in the shade of a tree or shed
than in the car trunk or on the car seat.
* Cool them as soon as possible after picking. Strawberries may be
kept fresh in the refrigerator for 3 or more days, depending upon the
initial quality of the berry. After a few days in storage, however,
the fruit loses its bright color and fresh flavor and tends to
shrivel.
* When you get them home, sort but do not clean them until just
before you use them.
* Store the berries uncovered in the refrigerator in a shallow
container.
* When ready to use, wash them quickly in cold water. Do not let
them soak. Drain them well before you hull them. It's best to use your
strawberries within three days.


Penelope