In the scorching summer, strawberry season is coming, and the basket of red strawberries on the market not only attracts the eye, but also is a treasure trove of nutritional value, which makes people love it. Strawberries are not only sweet in taste, but they are also a low-calorie fruit, which is perfect for friends who want to stay in shape or lose weight. They are rich in vitamin C, which provides nearly 125 percent of daily needs per 100 grams, which helps with antioxidants, boosts immunity, and also promotes wound healing.
What's even more surprising is that strawberries are rich in antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, which are effective in fighting free radicals, which have a positive effect on slowing down the aging process and preventing chronic diseases. In addition, the fiber in strawberries can help promote intestinal health, which is beneficial for maintaining the normal functioning of the stomach and intestines and preventing constipation.
Driven by so many benefits, strawberries have become a regular on the summer table. However, while we enjoy the many benefits of strawberries, we also need to be wary of those strawberries on the market that look perfect but can actually be harmful to health. According to an experienced fruit shop owner, some types of strawberries are not suitable for consumption due to improper handling or poor growing conditions. By choosing the right strawberries, you can not only enjoy their deliciousness, but also ensure a healthy and safe intake.
Overripe strawberries
Overripe strawberries are usually too dark in color, and the skin may begin to shrink, feel soft to the touch, and some may even begin to ooze juice. These strawberries, while may taste sweeter, are starting to lose their nutritional value and taste at their best. From a health perspective, overripe strawberries are more likely to harbor bacteria, especially in hot and humid environments, which increases the risk of gastrointestinal upset after consumption. Overripe strawberries that have been stored for a long time can also ferment and produce unhealthy substances. Therefore, when shopping, avoid strawberries that are overripe or have signs of damage, which can help you enjoy a tastier and safer fruit.
Strawberries with an unnatural appearance
The natural growth form of strawberries should be uniform and regular heart-shaped, but strawberries of odd shapes or sizes can sometimes be found on the market, which are often caused by uneven light exposure or insufficient nutrient supply during the growth process. These strawberries may be unevenly ripe, affecting taste and nutrition. When picking, you can observe whether the color of the strawberries is uniform, and feel it gently with your hands, and the ripe strawberries should be firm and elastic. Avoid buying unusually twisted or noticeably uneven shaped strawberries, which usually don't taste good or are not very nutritious.
Strawberries that have mildew or damage
Moldy or damaged strawberries will have visible spots, moldy white hairs, or crushed breakage. Not only does this type of strawberry lose its taste, but it may also hide health risks. Moldy strawberries contain mold and the toxins it produces, which can cause food poisoning and pose a threat to human health. When purchasing, be sure to check that each strawberry is intact and avoid those that are damaged or moldy to ensure that they are safe to eat.
Strawberries with visible traces of chemical treatment
Some strawberries on the market may be chemically treated to enhance their appearance, and these strawberries are unusually bright in color or have an unnatural sheen. Long-term consumption of these strawberries may have adverse effects on the body, such as affecting the digestive system or triggering more serious health problems. When buying, you can sniff the strawberries for the smell of chemicals, and normal strawberries should have a naturally sweet fruity aroma instead of a pungent chemical smell.
Peculiar smell of strawberries
Fresh and healthy strawberries should have a faint sweet aroma, and if you notice that the strawberries have an off-flavor, such as sour, musty, or other unusual odors when you buy them, it may be a sign that the strawberries have started to spoil or are not fresh. With a simple olfactory test, you can avoid buying strawberries that may have gone bad, thus guaranteeing a safe and tasty taste.
Careful selection of strawberries can help you avoid low-quality fruits that can affect your health and taste. From overripe strawberries to unnatural looking, from mildew or damage to visible traces of chemical treatment, to odorous strawberries, these are all things you should be wary of during the summer strawberry season. By recognizing the characteristics of these strawberries and learning how to identify them, you can not only ensure that you and your family are eating high-quality, healthy strawberries, but also gain a deeper understanding of where the food comes from and how it is processed.