How to Store Raspberries So They Stay Fresh for 2 Weeks

Whether baked in a crisp, turned into a frosty dessert, or enjoyed fresh off the bush, raspberries impart the flavor of sweet, sweet summer. Fortunately, we now can consume them year-round—and when properly stored, they can be (and stay) perfectly delicious. Knowing how to store raspberries can make all the difference to their longevity, as these thin-skinned, juicy fruits are very delicate and require sensitive handling. We consulted experts to find out how best to store this delicate fruit.

Raspberries Need Gentle Care

Our experts recommend two methods for storing raspberries: in the refrigerator and in the freezer. Some types of fruit can be left out on the counter, but not this one. "Raspberries are a delicate fruit susceptible to rapid deterioration. Studies show that they could last anywhere from two hours to two days at room temperature," says Ali Manning, food scientist and founder of Umami Food Consulting. For the best flavor and the longest lifespan, make sure your berries are refrigerated or frozen as soon as possible after purchasing, says Frances Dillard, vice president of marketing for Driscoll's, a leading berry grower based in California.

How to Store Raspberries In the Refrigerator

The point of refrigeration is to prolong the fruit’s shelf life and inhibit microbial growth, Manning explains. She recommends storing them in a breathable cloth bag or glass container with a lid before refrigerating. Alternatively, they can stay in their store-bought container if you add a folded paper towel under the berries to absorb excess moisture.

Dillard recommends making sure your refrigerator is between 32 and 34 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal raspberry storage. And pick over the berries before storing them to make sure any mushy ones are removed. She notes the berries should be kept as dry as possible and only rinsed right before serving. Don't serve them cold from the fridge, Dillard says they should come to room temperature before eating for the best flavor.

Shelf life: Stored properly in the refrigerator, raspberries will last from two days to two weeks. How long they are good for will depend largely on the ripeness of the fruit at the time of purchase. (See our tips for raspberry selection below.)

In the Freezer

If you really want to freeze time (pun intended), go ahead and store your berries in the freezer immediately after purchasing. While raspberries should generally only be washed right before using, they should be washed before freezing because they are softer once they are thawed, and it will be more difficult to wash them then.

How to Freeze Raspberries

1. Pick over the raspberries and remove any damaged or mushy ones.
2. Place the berries in a colander and gently rinse with running water. Shake gently to drain the excess water and dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure there is no excess moisture before freezing.
3. Spread them in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a reusable silicone baking mat. (This prevents the raspberries from clumping together.)
4. Freeze until firm, 1 to 2 hours.
5. Transfer the berries to a lidded glass container, silicone pouch, or reusable freezer bag,

Shelf Life: “Raspberries frozen at maximum freshness may last as little as two to three months or up to a year, depending on your packaging and freezer settings,” says Manning.

Tips to Help You Store Raspberries for Longer

Choose wisely: The longevity of your raspberries will depend on their ripeness at the time of purchase. “When choosing fruits, rely on your senses,” says Manning. That means looking out for mold, decomposition, excess dirt, or excess moisture; sniffing for any early indicators of rotting; and, if possible, touching and tasting to ensure firm skin and fresh flavor.

Use the right container: "Fruits and vegetables have thin, permeable skins susceptible to oxidation and decomposition," says Manning.

Know your limits: Get ahead of food waste by estimating what you will realistically consume—and transforming what you can’t. "If you notice you can’t consume the raspberries, get creative and use them in a jam!" says Manning. Dillard recommends using the berries in smoothies, pies, and other baked goods, as well as in sauces, jams, and marinades.