Blueberries

Blueberries are a delicious, nutritional snack. Highbush blueberries are around the size of a marble and can range from bright blue to dark blue, sometimes even black. Blueberries can also be found with a whitish shine around them, called a “bloom”. Blueberries are healthy convenience food- no peeling, pitting, or cooking required! Simply wash and eat.

Best Storage Practices:

Store blueberries in a refrigerator in a plastic bag or container. Don’t wash berries until eating or serving as this will quicken the deterioration process.

Fun Ways to Eat and Cook:

Blueberries are mostly eaten raw as a fresh snack—atop salads, in fruit salads, muffins, and more. If cooked, blueberries are baked or cooked on the stovetop.

Selecting Blueberries:

When choosing blueberries, only select blueberries that a vibrant color—bright blue to navy blue. Avoid damaged berries, particularly small or large berries, and any berries with discoloration or bruising.

Why it’s Good to Eat:

• Good source of Vitamin C
• Good source of natural sugars—the darker the berry, the sweeter the juice
• Good source of dietary fiber

When it’s in Season:

Blueberries are a versatile crop and can be grown throughout North Carolina. They are most often grown from summer to early Fall. Blueberries usually thrive in temperate climates during warmer days, but can survive in colder environments.

How it’s Harvested:

Blueberries grow in clusters on bushes that range from several feet high to over 10 feet high. Because clusters ripen at different speed, berries are harvested by hand.

Recipes:

Blueberry Salad—Wash and mix blueberries, cantaloupe, and blackberries. Top fruit with toasted nuts. Drizzle with honey, a dash of sugar, and spice with mint.