What will happen to blueberries if they are left for too long

blueberries that have been stored for a long time may experience water loss, mold and spoilage, poor taste, reduced nutritional value, and produce unpleasant odors. Blueberries belong to the berry fruit category, with a thin skin and high moisture content. Prolonged storage can easily lead to water evaporation. The surface of the fruit will shrink, and the flesh will gradually become soft and collapsed, disrupting the balance between sweetness and acidity. Blueberries stored at room temperature for more than 3 days may begin to ooze juice, and the color of the skin may change from bright blue purple to dull. Although these blueberries have obvious changes in appearance, they can still be consumed after heating treatment if no mold spots appear. Blueberries stored in environments with high humidity are more prone to mold growth, commonly including Penicillium and Botrytis cinerea. In the early stage of mold growth, white fuzzy hyphae will appear at the fruit stem and gradually spread throughout the entire fruit. Moldy blueberries can produce harmful substances such as penicillin, and it is not recommended to consume them even if the moldy part is removed. Eating moldy blueberries by mistake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, and those who are allergic to mold may also experience respiratory reactions. If mold spots are found on the surface of blueberries, they should be discarded immediately.

It is recommended to consume blueberries as soon as possible after purchasing them. For those that have not been consumed, wipe off the surface moisture and store them in a fresh-keeping box for refrigeration. It is best to consume blueberries stored in refrigeration within 5 days, and frozen storage can be extended to 3 months, but the taste may become softer after thawing. Pay attention to whether there is mold before consumption. Blueberries that are slightly dehydrated can be made into jam or added to yogurt. If there are obvious signs of spoilage, they should not be consumed. Avoiding squeezing and collision during daily storage and maintaining a dry and ventilated environment can help extend the shelf life.