Tag: Blueberry bloom

According to the USDA, soft fruits like blueberries should be discarded if they have visible mold, as the fungus can penetrate deep below the surface. Can you wash white mold off blueberries and save the rest of the batch? The consensus is that while you should never eat the moldy berry itself, you can often salvage the rest of the container with care.

The average American consumes over 1.5 pounds of blueberries each year, and many people have questioned the dusty, white film often found on their surface. This coating, known as 'bloom,' is a natural defense mechanism produced by the berries themselves. Far from being a cause for concern, it is a key indicator of freshness and is completely safe to eat.

The whitish, dusty film you see on the surface of fresh organic blueberries is not a sign of mold or pesticide residue, but rather a naturally occurring protective layer known as “bloom”. This waxy coating is a hallmark of high-quality, freshly picked fruit and is completely safe to consume. Its presence indicates that the berries have been handled minimally, preserving their natural defenses and freshness.

Most fresh blueberries are not washed before packaging to preserve their natural waxy "bloom," a protective coating that extends their shelf life. In contrast, commercially frozen berries undergo a thorough washing process at the factory before being packaged and frozen.