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Blueberries contain more antioxidants than most foods, including most fruits or vegetables. Blueberries boast large amounts of anthocyanosides which are said to be among the most potent antioxidants yet discovered. They also contain ellagic acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties and has been shown to both prevent and fight cancer in laboratory tests. Recent research indicates that blueberries reduce aging-related brain damage as well as signs of Alzheimer's disease in brain tissue. Blueberries are also high in fiber, which reduces cholesterol production.
The blueberry is an epigynous or false berry as the fruit is derived from an inferior rather than superior ovary—the latter being the source of a true berry. Blueberries are closely related to cranberries, bilberries, lingonberries, and huckleberries. Blueberries require a winter freeze and are primarily produced in the U.S. and Canada, with a small quantity coming from Poland, and other countries.
The blueberries most often seen in U.S. groceries are referred to as cultivated blueberries. Wild blueberries are usually found fresh only in farmers’ markets, but they can be found canned, frozen or dried in grocery stores. Wild blueberries are smaller, denser and tend to have more flavor than cultivated blueberries. They are also much more expensive due to their rarity. A limited number of blueberries are sold fresh, while the rest are processed and most commonly added to baked goods like muffins, pies, and cakes. Blueberries are also individually quick frozen (IQF) as well as processed into jams, jellies, and syrups. With their sweet taste and rich purple color, blueberries boost the appeal and the nutritional value of fruit smoothies.
Available Blueberry Products:
Wild Blueberry Products are also available, but are always in short supply. Please ask us about availability.
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Berries