Why you’ll want to clean your berries before eating them | August 23, 2025

Berries are a delightful and nutritious addition to our diet. Whether you enjoy the succulent sweetness of strawberries or the rich juiciness of blackberries, these tiny fruits offer a range of health benefits, including vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. However, it is essential to clean berries before consuming them to ensure not only their cleanliness but also to minimize the risk of ingesting any unwanted surprises.
One of the primary reasons for cleaning berries is to remove any potential insects or larvae that may have found their way into the fruit. Blackberries, for instance, can be susceptible to infestation by the black spotted fruit fly larvae. These tiny pests lay eggs on the surface of the berries, which then hatch into larvae. If consumed, they can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and spoil the enjoyment of your berries.

Why are black spotted fruit fly larvae attracted to berries?
Black spotted fruit fly larvae, also known as Drosophila suzukii, are attracted to and infest various types of soft-skinned fruits, including blackberries. There are a few reasons why blackberries may be particularly susceptible to infestation:
Read more on next page