From our orchard to your table
How to store fresh and frozen haskap berries
From the trip home to your next recipe, a few simple steps help you make the most of your harvest.
After picking
Keep your berries shaded during your visit and refrigerate them promptly when you get home. A shallow container helps prevent crushing. Sort the berries and discard any that are mouldy or spoiled.
In the refrigerator
Keep your refrigerator at 4°C or below and use a clean, ventilated container. The University of Saskatchewan suggests about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator for fresh berries. This is a guide, not a guarantee: berry condition at picking and during transport also matters. Check them daily and discard any that are mouldy or spoiled.
When should you wash them?
Rinse haskap berries under running drinking water just before eating or preparing them. Handle them gently and do not use soap. Before freezing, drain them well and gently dry them after rinsing.
Freeze in small portions
Spread the prepared berries in a single layer on a clean tray. Once frozen, transfer them to freezer bags or containers and label them with the date. Store at −18°C or below. This makes it easier to take out just the amount you need.
Using frozen berries
Follow your recipe to see whether the berries need thawing. When needed, thaw them in the refrigerator in a container that catches the juice. Their softer texture suits compotes and cooked dishes. For purchased products, follow the package instructions.
Jams, jellies, syrups and juice
Fresh-fruit storage advice does not automatically apply to processed products. Check their labels, especially for refrigeration instructions after opening.
Keep exploring
Camerise St-Gabriel
We grow haskap without pesticides or herbicides in Saint-Gabriel-de-Brandon, in the mountains of northern Lanaudière, Quebec. Discover our products or plan a visit during picking season.