FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
_________________________________________________

Do strawberries ripen after they've been picked?
Strawberries are individually hand picked when they are fully ripened. Unlike other fruits, strawberries do not ripen after being harvested.

Do smaller strawberries taste better?
The size of the berry does not affect its flavor.
To heighten their naturally sweet flavor, serve strawberries at room temperature.

Why does the flavor of strawberries
vary week to week?
Fruit flavor can be dramatically affected by changing California weather conditions. Strawberries are a very delicate fruit that requires very moderate temperatures for growing. Flavor and fruit color can also vary from one variety to another and also vary depending on the production area.

When can I find California strawberries?
California strawberries are harvested year-round. Southern California provides the majority of the strawberry harvest in the shoulder season from October to April. Both Southern and Northern California provide the harvest in the peak season from May through September.

What qualities should I look for when shopping
for strawberries?
Select plump strawberries with a natural shine, bright red color, and fresh green caps.

How should I store strawberries
once I get them home?
To maintain good flavor, appearance and the highest nutritional value, store strawberries loosely covered and unwashed in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

How do I prepare strawberries for serving?
Rinse strawberries with caps still attached under a gentle spray of cool water; pat dry with a paper towel. Do not remove the green caps before washing. The caps prevent water from breaking down the texture and flavor inside the berries. If a recipe indicates that caps should be removed, give them a gentle twist, or use the point of a sharp paring knife.

How fresh are the strawberries in my market?
Beach Street Farms' strawberries are individually hand picked, packed and shipped to stores within 24 hours of harvest.