Selecting and Storing

• Pick berries in the early morning or on cool, cloudy days. Berries that are picked in full sun will not store well.
• Select berries that are fresh and fully red.
• Grasp the stem and gently pull with a slight twisting motion.
• Don’t overfill containers; be gentle!
• Keep berries in the shade until you can refrigerate them. They can be stored there for about three days.
• To freeze berries, use only firm, ripe berries. Wash gently in cold water, drain and remove the hulls.
• Slice berries, and place in a shallow pan. Sprinkle with sugar (1/2 to 3/4 cup per quart.) Stir gently. Place in containers or plastic bags and freeze, leaving headspace.
• You can also freeze strawberries without sugar, by placing in a container and covering with water. Add ascorbic acid if you prefer, for better color retention, and freeze.

Fun Facts

• Strawberries are grown in every county of Michigan.
• Kids love strawberries! Over 53% of seven to nine year olds say strawberries are their favorite fruit!
• Strawberries are unique as they have the seeds on the outside of the fruit.
• Strawberries leaves can be used as a substitute for tea.

Nutritional Information:

• Strawberries are high in Vitamin C and folic acid. Just eight berries will give you the full Recommended Daily Requirement for each.

• They are also a good source of iron, calcium and fiber.

• There are about 60 calories in a cup.

Recipes:

• Strawberries are delicious simply straight out of the garden, but they are a great addition to fresh salads, plain yogurt, granola, muffins, smoothies, French toast, homemade ice cream, and chocolate fondue.

• Strawberry Shortcakes

• Strawberry Spinach Salad

• Strawberry Sorbet