I soaked my strawberries in salt water and these white things wriggled out?

Introduction

If you recently soaked your strawberries in salt water and noticed tiny white, wriggling specks coming out, you’re not alone.
Many people have experienced this and found it surprising. In most cases, those small white wrigglers are harmless insect larvae
that were already inside the fruit. This article explains what they are, why it happens, and how to safely handle your strawberries.

Ingredients

• Fresh strawberries
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water
• Additional clean water for rinsing
• A colander

Instructions

1. Prepare the solution: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water. Stir until fully dissolved.
2. Soak the strawberries: Place strawberries in the salt water and let them soak for 5–10 minutes.
3. Observe (optional): If there are any tiny larvae inside the fruit, the salt may cause them to come out.
4. Rinse thoroughly: Drain the strawberries in a colander and rinse well under running water to remove salt and any residue.
5. Dry and store: Pat dry with a clean towel and store in the refrigerator.

Description

The tiny white wriggling things are often larvae of small fruit flies, especially the
Spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii).
This insect lays eggs inside soft fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.

Unlike common fruit flies that lay eggs on overripe fruit, this species can lay eggs inside fresh fruit
while it’s still on the plant. When soaked in salt water, the larvae may exit the fruit, making them visible.

While unpleasant to see, this is relatively common in fresh produce and does not automatically mean
the strawberries are unsafe.

Is It Safe to Eat?

• The larvae are generally not harmful to humans.
• Eating a small amount accidentally is unlikely to cause illness.
• The main concern is quality and comfort, not safety.

However, discard the strawberries if you notice mold, a sour or fermented smell, a mushy texture,
or extensive infestation.

Tips

• Buy strawberries that are firm and bright red.
• Refrigerate immediately after purchase.
• Wash strawberries just before eating, not before storing.
• If concerned, cut strawberries open before eating to inspect the inside.
• You can also wash them with a vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water), then rinse thoroughly.

Correction

There is a common misconception that salt water creates worms in strawberries. This is not true.
The larvae were already present inside the fruit before soaking. The salt solution simply draws them out.

Not all strawberries contain larvae, and finding them does not necessarily mean the farm is unsanitary.
It is a natural part of growing soft fruits outdoors.

Enjoy

Don’t let this experience completely ruin strawberries for you! Fresh strawberries are still nutritious,
delicious, and safe when properly handled. A quick rinse, inspection, and proper storage can give you peace of mind.