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All About Blueberries: A Comprehensive Guide

Blueberries, those small, sweet, and slightly tangy orbs of goodness, have captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. Over the years, we’ve gotten a lot of questions about blueberries, so we thought we’d pull together a guide to answer some of the most popular questions. Here’s everything you need to know about blueberries, from their seasonality and storage to their acidity, their tiny seeds, and even whether your furry friends can savor them. Enjoy!

What Is a Blueberry?

A blueberry is a small, round fruit that grows on shrubs primarily belonging to the Vaccinium genus. It’s a true berry in botanical terms, but it’s so much more than that. 

The first thing to know about blueberries is that they come in 2 main varieties, highbush and lowbush.

Highbush blueberries are the more common type of blueberries. They tend to be larger and plumper than their lowbush counterparts. You’ve probably encountered these in your grocery store, and they’re perfect for enjoying fresh, baking, or crafting into various culinary delights like jams and juices.

Lowbush blueberries are also called wild blueberries because they aren’t cultivated. They’re found growing in the wild, especially in what are known as the barrens of Maine, where they’ve grown for over 10,000 years. Wild blueberries are known for their smaller size and more intense blueberry flavor than highbush blueberries.

Blueberries are prized not only for their delightful taste but also for their impressive nutritional profile—blueberries are brimming with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants (particularly anthocyanins), and dietary fiber.

Here’s just a glimpse of why blueberries are celebrated for their health benefits:

• Heart Health: The antioxidants and fiber in blueberries may contribute to improved cardiovascular health. Regular consumption has been linked to lower blood pressure and reduced LDL cholesterol levels.
• Cognitive Function: Blueberries have shown promise in enhancing brain function and memory, thanks to their protective compounds that contribute to healthy brains.
• Digestive Well-being: The dietary fiber in blueberries supports digestive health and function, as well as promotes a balanced gut microbiome.
• Skin Radiance: Antioxidant compounds in blueberries may help safeguard the skin against environmental damage, potentially leading to a healthier, youthful complexion.
• Vision Protection: Blueberries contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health and may lower the risk of age-related eye conditions.
• Blood Sugar Management: Some studies suggest that blueberries may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.

Do Blueberries Have Seeds?

Blueberries do have seeds, but they’re very small and not typically noticeable when eating the fruit. These seeds are soft and do not affect the texture of the blueberry. In fact, the tiny seeds contribute to the nutritional value of blueberries by providing essential dietary fiber.

When Are Blueberries in Season?

The peak season for all types of blueberries is during the summer months, typically from late June to early September in North America. However, the exact timing of blueberry season can vary depending on your location and climate. In warmer regions, blueberries may be in season earlier, while in cooler climates, the season might extend later.

Timing also depends on the type of blueberry being harvested. Highbush blueberries are usually ready for harvest between late June and early August. However, owing to their northern climes, wild blueberries are usually ready from late July to early September.

How Long Do Blueberries Last?

The shelf life of blueberries depends on how they’re stored. Fresh blueberries can last up to a week when refrigerated at temperatures between 32°F (0°C) and 40°F (4°C). For longer storage, freezing is the best option, as frozen blueberries can maintain their quality for up to a year.

How Do You Freeze Blueberries?

If you want to enjoy the delicious taste of blueberries year-round, freezing them is a great option. Follow these steps to freeze blueberries:

1. Wash and Dry…or Don’t: Start by rinsing the blueberries under cold water and patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps prevent ice crystals from forming during freezing. If you prefer, you can wait to wash your blueberries until you’re ready to use them. Just remember to rinse prior to eating or using them in cooking or baking.
2. Spread on a Tray: Spread the dried blueberries in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. This prevents the berries from sticking together.
3. Flash Freeze: Place the tray in the freezer for a few hours or until the blueberries are frozen solid. This process, known as flash freezing, ensures individual berries remain separate.
4. Transfer to a Bag or Container: Once frozen, transfer the blueberries to an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container with the date for reference.
5. Store in the Freezer: Keep the blueberries in the freezer for up to 6-12 months. They can be used directly from the freezer in smoothies, baked goods, or as a topping for yogurt and oatmeal.

How Do I Wash Blueberries?

As with all fresh fruits and vegetables, properly washing blueberries is an important step to ensuring they are clean and safe to eat. Follow these steps to make sure your blueberries are clean and ready to eat:

1. Rinse Gently: Place the blueberries in a colander or sieve and rinse them gently under cold, running water. Be careful not to use high water pressure, as it may damage the delicate berries.
2. Remove Debris: While rinsing, inspect the blueberries for any stems, leaves, or spoiled berries and remove them.
3. Drain Thoroughly: Allow the washed blueberries to drain in the colander or on a clean kitchen towel to remove excess water.
4. Pat Dry: If needed, pat the blueberries dry with a paper towel before using them in your favorite recipes or enjoying them fresh.

Are Blueberries Acidic?

Blueberries are considered a mildly acidic fruit, but their acidity is not overpowering. On the pH scale, blueberries generally fall between 3.1 and 3.3, making them slightly acidic. However, this mild acidity is part of what gives blueberries their characteristic tangy flavor, which pairs well with their natural sweetness.

Why Are Blueberries Blue?

The vibrant blue color of blueberries comes from a group of natural pigments known as anthocyanins. These pigments are antioxidants that protect the berry from oxidative damage and provide numerous health benefits.

How Do I Get Blueberry Stains Out?

Blueberry stains can be stubborn, but they’re not impossible to remove from clothing or fabric. Here’s a simple method to get blueberry stains out:

1. Act Quickly: As soon as you notice the stain, blot it gently with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess blueberry juice. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain.
2. Cold Water Rinse: Rinse the stained area with cold water from the backside of the fabric, allowing the water to push the stain out of the fibers.
3. Apply a Stain Remover: Apply a small amount of liquid laundry detergent or a commercial stain remover directly to the stain. Rub it gently into the fabric with your fingers.
4. Soak: Fill a basin or sink with cold water and add a tablespoon of salt. Submerge the stained item and let it soak for 15-30 minutes. Check the stain’s progress—you might want to continue soaking if you think it could use it. 
5. Wash as Usual: After soaking, wash the garment or fabric as you normally would, following the care instructions on the label. Use cold water for washing, as hot water can set the stain.
6. Check for Residue:Before drying, check if the stain is completely gone. If any traces remain, repeat the steps above.

Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?

Yes! Blueberries are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Blueberries are a healthy and nutritious treat for your furry friend, just as they are for you. Blueberries can be fed to dogs fresh or frozen, making them a cool and refreshing snack during hot weather. Just make sure that the blueberries are clean and free of any stems or leaves before offering them to your dog.

More about Wild Blueberries

Compared with ordinary blueberries, wild blueberries boast an intense blueberry taste, ranging from tangy tartness to succulent sweetness. Wild blueberries are flash frozen immediately after harvesting, so they always taste great. And because they’re loaded with 33% more anthocyanins than ordinary blueberries, wild blueberries contribute to healthy brains. Their smaller size means twice the berries—and twice the antioxidants—in every bite.

About the Wild Blueberry Association of North America

The Wild Blueberry Association of North America (WBANA) is a trade association of farmers and processors of wild blueberries from Maine who are dedicated to bringing the wild blueberry health story and advantages to consumers and the trade worldwide. WBANA is dedicated to furthering research that explores the health potential of Wild Blueberries. To date, hundreds of studies have been conducted on the potential health and disease fighting benefits of Wild Blueberries.