China cold storage solution provider
Blueberries are one of the most popular fruits worldwide, not only for their delicious taste but also for their high nutritional and medicinal value. Research shows that blueberries contain anthocyanins, which can activate the retina, promote the regeneration of visual pigments, enhance eyesight, and reduce eye fatigue.
With rising living standards, global demand for blueberries continues to grow. In recent years, blueberry farms and cooperatives have rapidly expanded in many regions. However, fresh blueberries are highly perishable. At room temperature, they typically last only 3–6 days. Because harvesting seasons are concentrated, many growers suffer heavy financial losses due to improper storage and fruit spoilage.
So, how can fresh blueberries be stored for longer? What is the most effective preservation method?
Controlled Atmosphere (CA) Cold Storage for Blueberries
The most advanced and effective way to extend blueberry shelf life is through Controlled Atmosphere (CA) cold storage. This technology helps maintain the color, flavor, and nutritional value of blueberries for weeks by carefully controlling temperature, humidity, and gas composition.
Steps for Blueberry Cold Storage
1.Sorting Before Storage
- Select firm, healthy blueberries.
- Remove rotten, damaged, or pest-affected fruit.
2.Pre-Cooling Before Storage
- Blueberries must be pre-cooled to below 7°C (44.6°F) before entering the CA cold room.
- Methods: forced-air pre-cooling or direct cooling inside the cold storage.
- The faster the cooling, the better the preservation effect.
- Pre-cooling time should not exceed 2 hours.
3.Optimal Temperature, Humidity & Gas Settings
- Temperature: -0.5°C to +1°C (31°F to 34°F)
- Relative Humidity: 90%–95%
- Oxygen (O₂): 3%–5%
- Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): 4%–8%
- Stable temperature is crucial. Too high will accelerate respiration and cause fermentation or off-flavors; too low may damage the fruit.
- Proper humidity prevents dehydration and shriveling.
With the right CA cold storage conditions, blueberries can be stored for up to 50 days, significantly extending their market availability and reducing post-harvest losses.
👉 In fact, our team has successfully completed multiple blueberry cold storage projects, designed specifically to help growers and distributors minimize losses and maintain premium fruit quality.
If you’d like to see how such a system works in real life, take a look at our Blueberry Cold Storage Project Case