Yes, Strawberries Can Have Bugs—Here’s How to Get Rid of Them

As the weather warms up, one of the best perks is the return of fresh, seasonal fruit. Goodbye bland grapes, and hello to juicy, sweet strawberries!

Of course, with the abundance of fresh produce, it’s crucial to make sure everything is thoroughly cleaned. Last year, viral videos showed tiny bugs emerging from strawberries washed in salt water, making us all wonder—how can we avoid this? Nobody wants to think about bugs in their fruit salad, so what’s the best way to get rid of pests on your berries?

Yes, Bugs Are Likely in Your Strawberries

Since produce comes from the earth, it’s normal to find some dirt, debris, and even bugs on your fruits and vegetables. The good news is that these critters are usually harmless to humans.

Sometimes, people buy large quantities of strawberries for making jam. If fruit flies become a problem, plant ecologist and food writer Heather Ardnt Anderson suggests rinsing the fruit as usual, then skimming off any larvae once the fruit reaches a boil.

Soaking strawberries in saltwater will indeed force any hidden pests to surface. According to Cornell University, soaking berries in a solution of 1 tablespoon of salt per cup of water for 15 minutes will help dislodge larvae living inside. Afterward, rinse the berries thoroughly to remove any remaining salt and pests.

Once you've stocked up on strawberries, you may wonder how to keep them fresh and prevent mold. We reached out to the experts at Driscoll for tips on how to extend the shelf life of your berries.

The Best Way to Clean Strawberries, According to Driscoll

For all fresh produce, Driscoll recommends thoroughly rinsing berries under cool water and using a clean cloth to gently scrub the surface, if needed.

The FDA concurs, advising consumers to wash produce with just water and a vegetable brush to remove dirt or any potential pathogens. They do not recommend using special vegetable washes or soaps.

When Anderson washes her strawberries, she keeps it simple. 'I prefer to soak them in a bowl of cold water, then give them a gentle shake to loosen any dirt. The debris sinks to the bottom, and I use a slotted spoon to scoop out the berries, placing them on a clean kitchen towel to air dry.' She advises storing fruit unwashed to avoid mold—just wash before eating.

How to Store Berries to Keep Them Fresh Longer

Always refrigerate strawberries immediately and keep them as dry as possible. Excess moisture can create a breeding ground for bacteria, so be sure to remove any excess. Use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb extra condensation, and rinse the berries only when you're ready to eat them.

Driscoll also suggests letting the berries come to room temperature before serving to bring out their full, natural flavor.