Here's a step-by-step guide to selecting the best strawberries: Look for vibrant colour: Choose strawberries that have a deep, vibrant red colour. Avoid berries that appear pale or have green or white patches, as these are typically underripe. Check the stems: The stems of fresh strawberries should be fresh and green, indicating that they were recently harvested. Avoid berries with dried or wilted stems, as they may be older and less fresh. Examine the surface: Inspect the surface of the strawberries for any signs of bruising, mold, or soft spots. Healthy strawberries should have a smooth and glossy appearance. Assess the size: Larger strawberries sometimes tend to be juicier and sweeter. However, keep in mind that size alone doesn't determine flavour, so balance it with other factors such as colour, smell, and texture. Often local strawberries are smaller than imported ones, but they are usually sweeter. Check for pesticide residue: If you have concerns about pesticide residue, consider choosing organic strawberries, which are grown without synthetic pesticides. You should also wash conventionally grown strawberries thoroughly before consuming them.