{
  "checked_on": "2026-10-12",
  "title": "Wash when you use them",
  "deck": [
    "Storage and cleaning are different steps.",
    "Keep whole berries cold; prepare a portion."
  ],
  "eyebrow": "REDBERI \u00b7 HOUSEHOLD PRODUCE GUIDE",
  "output": "strawberry-washing-decision.svg",
  "categories": [
    {
      "category": "Whole berries for later",
      "decision": "Refrigerate unwashed",
      "detail": "Avoid adding surface moisture."
    },
    {
      "category": "Ready to eat or prepare",
      "decision": "Rinse, drain and dry",
      "detail": "Use running water and clean equipment."
    },
    {
      "category": "Mouldy soft fruit",
      "decision": "Discard affected berries",
      "detail": "Inspect nearby fruit; washing is no rescue."
    }
  ],
  "sources": [
    "https://ucanr.edu/sites/default/files/2010-07/30763.pdf",
    "https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/7-tips-cleaning-fruits-vegetables",
    "https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/molds-food-are-they-dangerous"
  ],
  "footer": [
    "UC Extension; FDA; USDA \u00b7 Checked 12 October 2026.",
    "Sourced handling rules; no measured shelf-life experiment."
  ],
  "limitations": "Qualitative guidance; not a measurement of freshness or contamination. Starting condition and handling vary."
}