Why Strawberries Aren't As Sweet Anymore
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- Strawberries sold in stores have been bred mainly for size, yield, color, and hardiness rather than sweetness, leading to blander taste compared to wild strawberries, according to studies and expert insights.
- Commercial strawberries are often harvested before fully ripe to endure long-distance shipping, but unlike some fruits, strawberries do not continue to ripen or get sweeter after picking.
- Consumer preferences heavily influence strawberry breeding; most buyers prioritize external qualities like size, color, and firmness since these traits are visible before purchase, while flavor is less considered.
- Fungicides used on strawberries may reduce their sugar content, whereas strawberries that activate natural pest defense mechanisms can become sweeter, suggesting organic or pesticide-free berries may taste better.
- To find sweeter strawberries, shoppers are
