Cranberries are a popular fruit that are often used in salads, relishes, juices, and baked goods like muffins or scones. They have a tart, tangy flavor that can add a burst of flavor and color to dishes. Cranberries are commonly available fresh during autumn and the winter holiday season. You may find yourself buying extra bags of fresh cranberries if they are on sale and want to store them for later use. This leads to the question – do cranberries go bad in the fridge?
How long do fresh cranberries last in the fridge?
Fresh cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator crisper drawer for 2-3 weeks. The optimum storage temperature for cranberries is around 40°F. Stored properly in the fridge, fresh cranberries will retain their firm texture and tangy flavor for up to 3 weeks after purchase. Here are some tips for maximizing fridge life of fresh cranberries:
- Inspect cranberries and discard any damaged, mushy, or moldy berries before refrigeration
- Place cranberries in a clean paper towel lined container or resealable plastic bag
- Store cranberries in the high humidity crisper drawer of refrigerator
- Wash cranberries right before use instead of washing beforehand, moisture encourages spoilage
- Seal container tightly and keep refrigerated at all times, cold air circulation is key
Properly stored fresh cranberries will become softer over time but remain edible for 2-3 weeks. Discard cranberries that become excessively soft or develop mold.
How can you tell if refrigerated cranberries are bad?
There are a few signs that indicate your refrigerated cranberries have gone bad and should be discarded:
- Appearance – Mushy, discolored or shriveled cranberries are past their prime. Toss any berries that are leaking liquid or juices.
- Mold – Look closely for visible mold, white fuzz or sliminess on the cranberries. Moldy berries should be discarded immediately.
- Off odors – Cranberries that have an “off” smell are spoiled. Good cranberries have a fresh, tart aroma.
- Texture – Cranberries naturally soften over time but excessively mushy or soft cranberries are spoiled.
If your refrigerated cranberries display any of these signs, it’s best to throw them out. When in doubt, remember the old adage – “When in doubt, throw it out!”
Can you freeze cranberries?
Yes, fresh cranberries can be frozen for long term storage. Frozen cranberries will retain their quality for up to 1 year. Here are some tips for freezing fresh cranberries:
- Wash and dry fresh cranberries thoroughly before freezing
- Spread cranberries in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in freezer until frozen solid, about 2 hours
- Transfer frozen cranberries to airtight freezer bags or containers
- Remove as much air as possible and seal bags
- Label bags with contents and freeze date
- Store frozen cranberries at 0°F or below
Properly frozen cranberries will remain loose and plump when thawed. They can be used in recipes or enjoyed fresh without defrosting. Rinse under cool water to thaw frozen cranberries.
What are the best ways to use fresh cranberries?
There are many delicious ways to enjoy fresh cranberries when they are in season:
- Salads – Add fresh cranberries to green salads, grain bowls, chicken salads, or fruit salads. Their tartness pairs well with creamy or sweet ingredients.
- Sauces – Puree fresh cranberries into chutneys, compotes, salsas, or use cranberry sauce as a topping for meats.
- Baked goods – Fresh cranberries can be mixed into muffins, scones, cakes, breads, pancakes and more.
- Juices & smoothies – Blend cranberries into fruit juices, smoothies, or health drinks. Balance their tartness with something sweet.
- Relishes – Make delicious cranberry relish to accompany meats and holiday meals.
When using fresh cranberries in cooked applications like baking, sauces or relishes, the cranberries may pop open and leak some of their juicy interior. This is completely normal and enhances the flavor. Enjoy fresh cranberries soon after purchase for best flavor and texture.
What are the health benefits of cranberries?
Cranberries are packed with beneficial nutrients and antioxidants. Here are some of the top health benefits of cranberries:
- Vitamin C – One cup of cranberries provides 18% DV of immune boosting vitamin C. They have more vitamin C than oranges or grapefruit.
- Manganese – Cranberries are an excellent source of manganese which supports bone health and metabolism.
- Antioxidants – Cranberries have very high levels of polyphenol antioxidants that can help combat inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Fiber – With 4 grams per cup, cranberries provide digestive regulating fiber that promotes regularity.
- Heart health – Compounds in cranberries may improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and overall heart health.
Research also indicates that cranberries have antibacterial effects that may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Overall, cranberries are a tasty and nutritious fruit that offer a variety of potential wellness benefits.
Conclusion
Fresh cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator crisper drawer for 2-3 weeks. Look for signs of spoilage like mushiness, mold, off-odors and leakage. Frozen cranberries will keep for up to 1 year in the freezer. Enjoy fresh cranberries soon after purchase by adding them to salads, baked goods, sauces, relishes and more. Cranberries offer the benefits of vitamin C, manganese, antioxidants, fiber and more. With proper storage, refrigerated cranberries can retain good quality for up to 3 weeks.