Blueberries seem to be the fruit that people can't get enough of. They sell out quickly at farmers markets as eager bakers stock up on a good supply destined for pies, pancakes, and jam. It's no wonder: These blue-ribbon beauties are both delicious and good for you. And if you're lucky enough to find wild blueberries, you'll think you've died and gone to heaven! These small berries are some of the most flavorful you'll find. Local blueberries are just starting to arrive in Northern Michigan, so bring out those recipes and enjoy these mid-summer treasures.
Selecting and Storing
- Select blueberries that are firm and smooth. They should be deep purple blue in color. Ones that are reddish are not yet ripe. These may be used for baking, but do not have the best taste for fresh eating.
- Eat fresh blueberries within a week after purchasing. Store berries in the refrigerator in a covered container. Do not wash until ready to eat.
- For longterm storage, place completely dry berries on a cookie sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer to a plastic freezer bag or container.
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Fun Facts
- Over 18,000 acres of blueberries are grown in Michigan, the largest blueberry-producing state in the U.S.
- More than 20 varieties are grown in Michigan. The Jersey variety is the most planted blueberry bush in the state.
- Blueberries are one of the few truly blue foods on earth.
- Blueberries thrive in acid soils and do best in soils with a pH between 4 and 5.
- Each blueberry grows from a different white blossom on the bush. Growers can tell how good their crop will be by counting the blossoms.
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Nutritional Information:
- Blueberries are considered a super food! They are the fruit that is highest in antioxidants.
- Blueberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C and fiber. They are also a good source of Vitamin A and iron.
- Research indicates that blueberries contain natural compounds similar to those found in cranberries, which help to maintain a healthy urinary tract.
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Recipes:
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For a list of farms in your area and more recipes, visit www.localdifference.org.
Taste the Local Difference is a project of the Michigan Land Use Institute’s Entrepreneurial Agriculture Project, which works to grow jobs, save farmland, and build healthier communities with food that’s thousands of miles fresher.
Sources/Links:
www.blueberry.org
www.michiganblueberries.com
www.orchardofhealth.com
www.blueberrybayfarm.org
www.blueberryfestival.com
