Can blueberries still be eaten if they are wrinkled after being stored for too long

blueberries that have been stored for a long time and become wrinkled can generally be eaten if they have not gone bad, but it is not recommended to consume them if they have gone bad, such as mold or odor. Blueberry wrinkling is mainly caused by water loss, and its nutritional value may slightly decrease, but it usually does not affect safety.

Blueberry skin wrinkling is a natural manifestation of fruit dehydration, especially when stored for a long time in refrigerated or dry environments. When the flesh of these blueberries is not rotten, they still contain antioxidants such as anthocyanins and vitamin C, which can be made into jam or added to yogurt for consumption. Blueberries with slightly wrinkled skin may have a softer texture and a more concentrated sweetness. Rinse with water and remove any damaged fruits before consumption. If white fungal spots, a sticky and smooth texture, or a distinct sour and rotten taste appear on the surface of blueberries, it indicates the growth of mold or bacteria. Moldy blueberries may produce harmful substances such as penicillin, and even if the moldy part is removed, there is still a risk of contamination. Especially for people with weak gastrointestinal function, consuming spoiled blueberries may cause abdominal pain and diarrhea. It is recommended to refrigerate and keep blueberries dry during storage. If not consumed in a timely manner, they can be frozen to extend their shelf life.

When storing blueberries in daily life, you can keep the ventilation holes in the original packaging box or wrap them in kitchen paper to absorb condensation water. Observe the condition of the fruit before consumption. It is recommended to consume slightly wrinkled blueberries as soon as possible and pair them with oatmeal or salad to increase dietary fiber intake. If long-term storage is required, clean and dry it, then lay it flat in a single layer and freeze it. It can retain most of the nutrients and is suitable for baking or making smoothies.