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Unless you are eating them fresh, the hairs aren't a problem at all. Everything is filtered out when you strain it. The end result is a smooth semi thick syrup.

Yes, after the first freeze seems to make them sweeter. They always seem easier to remove from the plant as well. Always look for the ones deep red in color and always when foraging, be sure it isn't in an area being sprayed with herbicides.

I hope this post encourages you to make your own! Let me know if I can help at all!

cool! I will try making this syrup. I made rose honey this year :) It was amazing! I also made a rose witch hazel. I am excited to get to know rose hips better. Thanks for the inspiration~!