Berries

This category includes blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, black-currants (cassis), red currants, white currants, lingonberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Berries should be full, plump, and clean, with bright, fully ripe color. Watch for moldy or spoiled fruits. Wet spots on the carton indicate damaged fruit.

Refrigerate in the original container until ready to use in order to reduce handling. Except for cranberries, berries do not keep well. Sort out spoiled berries and foreign materials. Wash with gentle spray and drain well. Remove the stems and hulls from strawberries. Red currants for garnishing are often left on the stem. Handle berries carefully to avoid bruising.