When you're choosing raspberries in store, a quick look and gentle check can go a long way.

• Look for berries that are plump, dry, and brightly colored—no leaking juice.
• Flip the container slightly to check the bottom for excess moisture or any signs of mold.
• Avoid packages with many crushed or mushy berries; a few dents are common, but widespread soft spots usually mean they’re past their peak.
• Keep the package flat in your cart and bag to prevent squishing.
• Plan to enjoy them soon; raspberries are delicate and best fresh.

If you're using pickup or delivery where available, our teams aim to select high-quality produce, but availability and appearance can vary by location and season.

To help raspberries stay fresh after you bring them home, handle them gently and keep moisture in check.

• Refrigerate promptly in their breathable container; cool temperatures can help slow softening.
• Don't rinse until right before eating—extra moisture can lead to faster spoilage.
• Remove any damaged berries to avoid spreading moisture to the rest.
• For added airflow, you can place a clean paper towel under the berries in the container.
• Aim to enjoy them within a couple of days; delicate berries typically have a short window.

If you won't use them soon, consider freezing a portion for smoothies or baking. Storage times vary based on freshness at purchase and your refrigerator settings.

Raspberries are delicate, so a light rinse is usually enough.

1. Wait to wash until just before eating or cooking.
2. Place berries in a colander and rinse briefly under cool, gentle running water—avoid soaking.
3. Drain well and pat dry with a clean towel to remove surface moisture.

Some home cooks use a very diluted vinegar rinse (about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) followed by a fresh water rinse. This approach may help lift surface debris, but it's optional. Handle berries minimally to reduce bruising. Whether you choose conventional or organic, a quick rinse and thorough drain can help maintain quality without over-handling.

Freezing raspberries is a simple way to save extras for later dishes.

1. Sort out any overly soft berries and remove stems or leaves.
2. Rinse gently only if needed, then dry thoroughly—excess water can cause ice crystals.
3. Spread berries in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and freeze until firm.
4. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, press out air, and label with the date.

Frozen raspberries tend to soften after thawing, so they're great for smoothies, sauces, oatmeal, and baking. For best quality, use within a few months and keep them at a consistent freezer temperature. Results can vary based on berry ripeness and your freezer.

Both organic and conventional raspberries can be fresh, flavorful choices—what you pick often comes down to preference and availability.

• Organic options are grown to meet certified organic standards; look for "organic" on the package.
• Conventional raspberries are grown with standard farming practices and are widely available.
• Appearance and taste can vary by season and growing region, not just farming method.
• Whichever you choose, refrigerate promptly and rinse gently just before eating.
• You'll typically find common container sizes, like 6 oz and 12 oz; select based on how quickly you plan to use them.

Availability and selection may differ by store and location, especially during off-peak seasons.