Locally-grown berries are more likely to be picked close to peak ripeness and flavor. Select bright red strawberries with healthy green caps. Leave these caps on to reduce shriveling. Raspberries and blackberries are the most fragile berries. Look for bright color and absence of juice on the bottom of the container.
Blueberries can be blue or black, with a powdery, silver-white sheen on the skin.
Berries are quite perishable. Place unwashed berries in a plastic container with a paper towel and refrigerate. Use soft, overripe berries immediately. How to Prepare Rinse fruit, drain and gently pat the berries until dry or drain in a colander. To prevent absorption of water, keep the caps on strawberries intact until after they are rinsed and drained.