Yes. The California strawberry industry has a strong safety history. There has never been a foodborne illness outbreak associated with fresh California strawberries.
Farmers are committed to continuing this strong history of safety because their first consumers are their own family and friends, so food safety is paramount.
On behalf of the farmers we represent, we understand it is our responsibility to effectively address consumer safety concerns with science-based, factual information.
The California Department of Public Health has stated the public should continue to eat fresh fruits and vegetables and to follow state and federal health agency advisories.
Most studies to date show that organic and conventional strawberries are equally nutritious. Conventional strawberries are grown by farmers using many organic-approved growing practices.
Health and nutrition experts recommend eating more fresh fruits and veggies – whether organic or conventional. According to the US Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most people should be doubling their fruit and vegetable consumption to reduce their risk of chronic disease and maintain a healthy weight.
California berry fields provide some of the best paying jobs and benefits for rural communities. Wages vary seasonally, and harvest workers can earn more than $30 per hour during peak harvest. These wages are higher than entry level jobs in retail or tourism. Most farm employees receive health insurance: farms with 50 or more employees comply with the Affordable Care Act health insurance coverage options. All farm employees receive medical and disability insurance for work-related injuries. Under California’s workers’ compensation system, employees are provided prompt medical treatment for on-the-job injuries or illnesses no matter who is at fault.
Health experts and scientists say produce, grown either conventionally or organically, is safe to eat. Americans are advised to eat more fruits and vegetables to reduce their risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. For more info on the topic visit www.safefruitsandveggies.com.
Strawberries grow along the California coast on about 35,000 acres. During peak season, strawberries are harvested in Salinas, Watsonville, Santa Maria, Oxnard and Orange County. During the cooler months, strawberries continue to be harvested in Santa Maria and Oxnard, making California strawberries available year-round.
California strawberries are fully ripe at the time they are picked and do not continue to ripen after harvesting. Choose berries with a bright red color and fresh, green caps (aka calyxes). Be sure to inspect the package to make sure there are no moldy berries.
Strawberries, as well as many fruits and vegetables, are grown outdoors. Strawberries are hand-picked and packed in the field, directly into the “clamshell” containers. Because of this, an occasional bug or worm is not unusual and may find its way into a package and go undetected until the berries are ready for use. Some consumers have also seen (on social media) the appearance of tiny bugs on some berries after being submerged in saltwater baths. There is no need for concern.
According to the FDA, microscopic bugs or bug parts on produce is common on produce, unavoidable and present no health hazards for humans. It is not recommended to soak your berries in salt water, as this may cause the fruit to taste bad or spoil. Experts recommend consuming more fruits and vegetables to stay healthy and avoid chronic illness.
How do I wash strawberries and other fresh fruit?
According to the FDA, you can follow these steps to wash your fruits and vegetables, including strawberries:
California strawberries are picked and packed by and in the field. They are then taken to a cooler where they are prepared for shipping within hours of being picked. Strawberries are shipped in refrigerated trucks across the country to arrive in stores within 3-4 days.
Refrigerate strawberries as soon as possible in the original clamshell, or layer strawberries in an airtight container lined with a paper towel. Prior to enjoying and before preparing, rinse strawberries under cool, running water. Gently pat dry. Strawberries taste best served at room temperature.
Growing strawberries as a hobby is very different from commercial strawberry production. Our advice is to contact your local nursery for growing tips based on the climate where you live.
Throughout the year strawberries are being harvested in California. Depending on the weather, peak strawberry season begins in early spring and runs all the way through fall.
Yes. There are no genetically modified strawberries commercially grown and shipped.
Different varieties of strawberries are developed for different climates and growing conditions. These varieties are developed using traditional breeding methods that involve selecting two parents and crossing them using their flowers.
There are a few different ways to freeze strawberries. One popular method is to freeze whole without sugar to maintain shape and nutritional benefits. Directions: After rinsing, gently blot dry and slice stem off at top of berry. Place cut side down on a cookie sheet lined with waxed paper and place uncovered in freezer for a minimum of six hours. Transfer strawberries to a freezer bag or container. Frozen strawberries can be stored frozen for several months.
Flavor is influenced by growing conditions like weather, stage of ripeness when harvested, and variety. Size is not a factor in determining flavor.
Fresh California strawberries are most flavorful at room temperature. They can be enjoyed just as they are, or added to cereal, salad, or enjoyed as a sweet or savory snack any time of day. For inspiration, check out our recipe pages or follow @castrawberries on Instagram.
During winter, the vast majority of crops that are grown in proximity to the Vistra plant are not being harvested at this time. No berries are being harvested in this area and nearly all vegetables are currently originating from outside growing regions. Read the CSC, GSA joint statement here.
