Strawberries 250g

The Strawberries 250g punnet contains fresh, Class 1 garden strawberries specifically selected for their uniform size and sugar content. Sourced from specialised South African berry farms, these fruits are high in Vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants. Each 250g unit is packaged in a ventilated container to maintain optimal respiration and fruit integrity.

Product Specifications and Features

• Quality Classification: Grade 1 fresh produce, ensuring the fruit is firm, free from major blemishes, and possesses the characteristic conical shape and glossy red finish.
• Nutritional Profile: Low in calories (roximately 33 kcal per 100g) while being a significant source of manganese and folate, supporting heart health and immune function.
• Packaging Design: Supplied in a 250g clear PET punnet with ventilation holes to manage humidity levels, which prevents premature moulding and preserves the delicate skin of the berry.
• Harvest Standards: Hand-picked at peak ripeness to ensure natural brix (sugar) levels are maximised, as strawberries do not continue to ripen significantly after being harvested.
• Ethical Sourcing: Sourced primarily from local regions such as the Western Cape and North West, reducing "food miles" and supporting agricultural sustainability.

Ideal Use

• Healthy Snacking: A ready-to-eat fruit option for school lunchboxes and office snacks, providing a natural alternative to processed confectionery.
• Breakfast and Smoothies: Sliced strawberries add natural sweetness to morning muesli, yoghurt, or oats, and blend easily into protein shakes and fruit smoothies.
• Summer Entertaining: Ideal for festive occasions, used as a garnish for Pimm’s cocktails, fruit salads, or served with fresh cream and pavlova.
• Home Preserves: The 250g portion is a convenient size for making small batches of homemade strawberry jam or coulis for topping pancakes and waffles.

Safety and Storage Precautions

• Cold Chain Management: For maximum shelf life, store strawberries in the refrigerator at 2°C to 4°C; avoid leaving the punnet in direct sunlight or warm vehicles.
• Washing Protocol: Do not wash berries until immediately before consumption; excess moisture on the fruit surface accelerates spoilage and softens the texture.
• Moisture Control: If the punnet contains condensation, place a piece of paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture and keep the berries dry.
• Stem Retention: Leave the green hulls (stems) intact during storage; removing them exposes the interior of the fruit to bacteria and can lead to faster decay.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long do they last in the fridge? When kept cold and dry, fresh strawberries typically stay at peak quality for 2 to 3 days after purchase.
• Are these strawberries organic? This is the standard Class 1 range; for organic certified berries, please check the specific labelling on the packaging in the organic produce section.
• Can I freeze these berries? Yes; remove the hulls, wash, and dry them thoroughly before freezing in a single layer to prevent clumping. They are best used in baking or smoothies after thawing.