wild blueberry Archives - Wild Blueberries

Preserving Tradition and Nurturing Generations: The Story of Brodis Blueberries in Maine

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Central and Downeast Maine, where the salty ocean breeze mingles with the sweet scent of wild blueberries, lies Brodis Blueberries, a ninth-generation, family-owned wild blueberry farm that’s rooted their legacy in stewarding the iconic crop for just over two centuries. Ron Howard, one of the farm’s main caretakers, resides on the property with his wife, Sonja, as well as varying family members who play a large role in yearly harvesting and farm operations.

Brodis Farm Family Heritage

Brodis Blueberries, once a cluster of thirteen small farms located in Hope, Maine, is today 170 consolidated acres specializing in Maine’s wild blueberries. Ron joined the seventh generation of the Brodis family 47 years ago, and since then has had the pleasure of assisting with this wild venture and all that it entails. For 30 years, Ron and his wife worked in careers outside of farming, but after the passing of his father-in-law seven years ago, they found themselves returning to their farm roots. At that time, Ron took charge of the field operations, learning and working alongside his mother-in-law and farm owner, Gwen Brodis. Today, the Howards are joined by Sonja’s sister, their son, daughter, niece and nephew – the eighth generation – and their grandchildren and cousins – the ninth generation – all of whom work tirelessly to ensure the farm’s success, “because here at Brodis Blueberries, it’s all hands on deck year-round,” notes Ron.

“Last year, in 2023, for the three weeks or so that we were open, we had 15 different family members actively working the farm,” Ron explained. “The roles range from harvesting and packing to sales. There were four generations working side by side which is not only very special, but in our case, essential for getting the job done in such a short window of time. We’re very, very, very fortunate,” he concluded.

Nurturing the Next Generation and Beyond

Ron and his family have a deep sense of pride in the farm and all the history it holds, and they hope to keep it running successfully for the next generation. Ron’s goal is to better the farm’s operations and create a sustainable business model that will support future generations for years to come. Having been raised on an agricultural farm in his youth, Ron recognizes the challenges of relying solely on wild blueberry farming for a livelihood. He has diversified his business model, opening a farm store that sells jams, sauces and pies year-round to ensure the farm’s longevity.

New Wild Business Ventures for the Whole Family

While a lot of the family is hands-on only during harvest season, there’s still a handful of family members who remain highly involved during the off-season. Ron’s son, Jeremy Howard, is one of them. Five years ago, Jeremy and a friend started Blue Barren Distillery & Restaurant, and began crafting spirits from the farm’s wild blueberries.

According to Ron, “The very first product was a 100% wild blueberry non-barrel aged brandy. Since then, they’ve created a number of new products including a few wild blueberry spirits, and a myrteau that tastes similar to a port – but it’s wild blueberry. Those are their core product offerings which link them back to the farm. What Jeremy and his friend are doing also helps to tell the story of the wild blueberry and of our farm, for us and for them.”

Ron’s mother-in-law, Gwen Brodis, is also active year-round, handcrafting all of the farm’s flavorful wild blueberry jams. Ron’s wife also bakes the delicious pies, desserts and sauces that are served at their son’s Blue Barren restaurant, located on the harbor in Camden, Maine.

Harvest Season and Sales

Spanning 170 total acres, Brodis Blueberries’ annual harvest yield can vary – from 100,000 to 200,000 pounds. The size of the crop depends on the state’s weather conditions and fragile pollination process. While a significant portion of the harvest is sold to Wyman’s of Maine for wholesale freezing, the farm actively seeks alternative sales channels to diversify their income.

These channels include partnerships with sparkling wild blueberry wine producers, vinegar makers, distilleries, and local kitchens and bakeries. By expanding its customer base and freezing a portion of the farm’s harvest, Brodis Blueberries ensures year-round availability of its berries and supports the creation of local Maine value-added products.

Brodis Blueberries has established quite the name for themselves in recent years, especially as a family-managed business. They were named the 2023 Maine and New England Jeffrey Butland Family Owned Business of the Year, by the Small Business Administration, due to their “incredible history of the business, and the significant efforts to ensure the continued success of the business.” A family business is defined as one in which one owner either shares ownership or works in the business with at least one other family member (contemporaneously or over time) and has a commitment to the continuation of the enterprise. All family-owned businesses in Maine were eligible for consideration.

A Wild Blueberry Lesson & Farm Goals

Beyond their exceptional taste and nutritional value, wild blueberries carry a remarkable story – one that Ron shares with anyone and everyone who is willing to listen. He is committed to spreading the special message of what Maine wild blueberries are all about.

“I think for me, the most important thing is to just get more people out on the farm, to get them to experience the barrens and the berries,” Ron explained. “When they can see and taste the difference for themselves, that’s what converts them to a wild blueberry lover. That’s what we need to do for the future of the industry, to make sure people understand and appreciate Maine’s wild blueberries.”

“These wild fruits exist where nature intended them to be, and have been growing in the Maine landscape since the end of the ice age. With hundreds of genetically unique plants thriving together, wild blueberries exemplify nature’s ability to adapt and coexist harmoniously,” noted Ron.

“They’re magnificent,” Ron exclaimed. “There may be a hundred different plants in a field, and every one of those blueberries is a little bit different in color and a little bit different in taste – almost like snowflakes, every single one is a little bit different and unique in its own way. So when you eat wild blueberries, you know you’re getting that abundance of variety.”

Brodis Blueberries Celebrates Wild Blueberry Weekend

One way the family is helping to spread the wild message is through Maine’s annual Wild Blueberry Weekend – now in its fourth year –- which is dedicated to celebrating all the goodness these little blue gems have to offer.

The event is set for the weekend of August 3 – 4, 2024, and will take place across the state at a variety of wild blueberry farms, breweries, restaurants, and more. Brodis Blueberries has a great weekend planned for visitors to the farm, full of fun family-oriented activities, food trucks, local vendors and even a hike through the property with breathtaking views. Here’s what you’ll find at Brodis Blueberries for the third annual Wild Blueberry Weekend:

Wild blueberries for purchase (fresh or frozen)
Food trucks
Value-added wild blueberry products
Live music
Hikes through the property
Storytime for kids – Blueberries for Sal

To learn more about Brodis Blueberries and the Maine wild blueberry industry, make sure to pay them a visit on Wild Blueberry Weekend.

7 Healthy & Delicious Smoothie Recipes from Health Experts

During August we took twelve health experts from across the country on an incredible 3-day adventure through Maine’s wild blueberry fields. From hand raking wild blueberries, to an amazing dinner featuring the delicious berries, and a smoothie-making competition, our health experts received a whirlwind introduction to Maine’s nutritious and delicious superfruit.

Our registered dietitians, doctors, nutritionists, and health coaches started their Maine adventure at the Passamaquoddy Wild Blueberry Company Barrens to learn more about the history of the wild blueberry. The Tribe’s wild blueberries are harvested from 2,000 acres of barrens in Maine on the largest Native American-owned wild blueberry farm in the world. Our health experts got the chance to hand rake wild blueberries, which is the traditional way of harvesting, and meet the folks integral to Maine’s wild blueberry industry. And, they discovered how wild blueberries, flash frozen at their peak of ripeness to lock in taste in nutrition, get from farm to freezer, and ultimately to you!

Wild Blueberry Smoothie Competition

On the final day of our trip, we challenged our guests to a fun smoothie-making competition and of course the main ingredient was wild blueberries. Our guests had dozens of ingredients to select from including some out of the box ones like cauliflower rice and cooked beets.

The Winners!

After plenty of sips enjoying all of the incredible smoothies our guests crafted, our judge Wild Blueberry Nutrition Advisor Kitty Broihier selected our winners based on taste, texture and visual presentation. The winner of our competition was Malina Malkani! Malina is a Registered Dietitian, author, speaker and the single mom of three girls behind the Instagram & TikTok accounts, @healthy.mom.health.kids. Malina created a unique recipe called Wild Blueberry Basil and Tahini Dream. Our judge calls it very creative, and fresh.

Wild Blueberry Basil and Tahini Dream Smoothie by Malina Malkani, MS, RD, CDN

NEW Inspiring & Healthy Smoothies

Looking for inspiration to ramp up your smoothie making game? Explore the six new recipes created by our wonderful team of food and nutrition experts. Each has its own unique character, flavor, and appearance:

Simple, Wild & Smooth Mango Blueberry Smoothie

Simple, Wild and Smooth Mango Blueberry Smoothie by Wendy Lopez, MS, RDN, CDE

1% Better Dark Chocolate Blueberry Smoothie

The Maine Snickerdoodle

Wild Blueberry Cream Pie Smoothie

Full Body Booster Smoothie

Skin Glow Summer Smoothie

Wild your Smoothie & Have a Healthy Scoop of Wild Blueberries Daily!

If you haven’t tried frozen wild blueberries yet, consider making them a staple for your frozen food pantry so you can make delicious and nutritious smoothies every day. Frozen wild blueberries have twice the antioxidant capacity, 72% more fiber, 32% less sugar and a more intense blueberry flavor when compared to regular blueberries found in the produce section.

Having a wild blueberry smoothie is a nutritious way to start the day. Plus, wild blueberries have been linked to better brain health and cognitive performance. There’s growing evidence from numerous studies suggesting eating wild blueberries daily may be a practical and effective part of a brain-healthy diet. With 33% more deep purply blue anthocyanins and 2x the antioxidants of ordinary blueberries, wild blueberries contribute to healthy brains!

Learn more about the difference between wild blueberries and regular blueberries here.

Celebrate a World of Flavors with Wild Blueberries

Spring has officially sprung – well, sort of – and as we begin to acclimate to the time change and warmer weather, I’m sure you’re starting to feel the growing urge to get out and explore. While travel may be difficult for some at this time, you can still get the travel bug out of your system by cooking your way around the world.

March marks the start of National Nutrition Month, and to celebrate, we want to share some healthy, colorful foods all made with wild blueberries that come from various corners of the world. Wild blueberries are only native to Maine and Eastern parts of Canada, which makes them incredibly special – and the same can be said for native cuisines from around the globe. Join us as we travel around the world and explore some delicious global cuisines that have been slightly adapted to include wild blueberries as a garnish, sauce, or in the recipe itself.

Come on a nutritious, flavorful journey with us to celebrate National Nutrition Month!

Tandoori Chicken Sticks with Wild Blueberry Fig Sauce

Originating in British India, Tandoori Chicken has been a staple throughout South Asia and the Middle East as well as in Western countries. Asian Indian Cuisine often includes lean protein foods, such as seafood, and lean cuts of meat or poultry. Top this off with a rich and delicious wild blueberry fig sauce, and you have the perfect mix of healthy protein and antioxidants.

Szechuan Crispy Duck with Chinese Wild Blueberry Sauce

Duck is particularly prominent within Chinese cuisine, commonly eaten with scallions and cucumbers. Chinese Cuisine often includes two things – carbohydrates or starches such as noodles, rice or buns, as well as an accompanying stir fry dish or veggies, fish, and meat. As for this Szechuan Crispy Duck, you can enjoy it with a side of wild blueberry sauce for some naturally added sweetness.

5 Minute Black Bean Tacos with Wild Blueberry Sauce

Latin Americans have always used freshly made, soft, flat corn tortillas and served them with fillings like fish. Nowadays, tacos are an extremely popular U.S. dish, and have taken on many adaptations (or as we call it “fusions”). Tacos are easy to put together – give it a try for yourself with these black bean tacos topped with some savory wild blueberry sauce.

Simple Summer Gazpacho with Wild Blueberries

Gazpacho, a cold soup commonly found in Spanish cuisine, especially in parts of Andalusia, traditionally contains colorful veggies such as tomatoes and peppers. Usually consumed with bread and other tapas (small plates), gazpacho is a refreshing meal – especially when you add some wild blueberries into the mix! This summer gazpacho with wild blueberries only requires two hours in the fridge to chill and then it’s ready to serve!

Chicken Saté with Wild Blueberry Peanut Butter Sauce

Chicken Saté (Satay) is a Southeast Asian dish made with seasoned, skewered, and grilled meat, served most commonly with a peanut sauce. Invented by street vendors, this dish is considered a delicacy in many Asian countries. Our recipe spins the classic Southeast Asian dish with some heart-and-brain-healthy wild blueberries, giving this dish a boost of sweet, tangy flavor and nutritional value.

If you decide to cook your way around the world in honor of National Nutrition Month, we want to see what you created! Take a picture, post on social media, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so we can see your delicious dishes from around the world.

Meet Abby Sennett, Third Generation Wild Blueberry Farmer

Stewarding, harvesting, and processing wild blueberries is part of Maine’s heritage and state culture – especially for the families that have been doing it for generations. Here in Maine you’ll find that many wild blueberry farms are owned and operated by the same family, passed down from generation to generation to ensure this unique tradition of protecting these wild blue gems is alive for years to come.

Meet Abby, Third Generation Wild Blueberry Farmer

Since the day she picked up her first wild blueberry rake, Abby Sennett knew that one day, she would have the honor and responsibility of owning and operating her family’s wild blueberry farm. Located in Albion (Downeast Maine), Sennett’s Wild Blueberries has been a family-run operation for over 50 years. Currently owned by her parents, Lincoln and Karen Sennett, Abby and her husband will soon inherit the business. What makes this inheritance even more special is that they met as teenagers while raking in the wild blueberry fields. Abby is currently working through the ownership succession process with her parents, and once all is said and done, Abby will become the third generation of Sennetts to own and care for the wild blueberry fields.

Looking Back at Sennett Harvesting Practices

Even though 50-or-so years have passed since Abby’s great-grandfather originally started the business, not much has changed in terms of how these tiny berries are harvested.

“It has been pretty much the same format for harvesting since then,” Abby explained.

She went on to share that Sennett’s Wild Blueberries cares for 158 acres of wild blueberry fields and harvests around 300,000 pounds of fresh wild blueberries each year. Wild blueberries are grown on a two-year cropping cycle and each year the Sennetts harvest half of their fields while the other half is pruned to help the plants regrow and improve yield year-over-year. Of the 79 acres that are harvested every other year, 60% are handraked. Handraking is a traditional method of harvesting Maine’s iconic fruit and tends to produce a higher yield of fruit in pristine condition.

If you want to enjoy some Sennett’s Wild Blueberries this summer, they sell frozen and fresh wild blueberry packs out of their processing facility in Albion, as well as various grocery stores and farm stands throughout New England.

Diversifying the Sennett’s Wild Blueberries Farm Business Model

Maine’s wild blueberry industry is very similar to a lot of other agricultural businesses in the state – full of hardworking people who are incredibly dedicated to their craft. But what makes the Sennett’s Wild Blueberries business model diverse? Not only do they steward and harvest wild blueberries, but they also produce Swan’s Honey.

“We are able to carry it through from the beginning by pollinating the wild blueberry plants with our bees, all the way through to the end product of harvesting in mid-to-late summer. We have been able to vertically integrate our bees into wild blueberries, so much so that we now have the largest apiary in the state of Maine. We do the pollination for many wild blueberry growers across the state. My dad originally got into it because he needed better pollination for the wild blueberries, and then it just became a hobby that got really out of hand – but it definitely paid off!”

What’s Next for Abby?

She would like to expand into more value-added wild blueberry products, as well as sell more fresh pack wild blueberries – but as for everything else, it will stay the same as it has, at least while she owns the farm.

“I’d like to have a family and raise my kids like my parents raised us. They got us involved on the farm at an early age so we really learned what makes wild blueberries so special – I’d like to do the same for my family so they grow a love for this industry too.”

To learn more about the Sennett family, their wild blueberry farm, and their apiary, you can visit their Facebook page.

The Seven Wild Ways to a Healthy Brain in 2024

‘Tis the season for mulling over your New Year’s resolutions and setting intentions for the year to come. As you head into the holiday season, perhaps you’re considering prioritizing personal health and wellness in 2024. But as you think about those resolutions, one important health and wellness goal that often gets overlooked is brain health. Not sure how to incorporate a brain healthy lifestyle into your everyday life? You’re in luck! Here are seven wild ways to a healthy brain that will help jump start your 2024.

Move Every Day: Exercise enhances blood flow to the brain, increases brain cell connections, and requires balance and spatial relation practice. Plus, the endorphins we get from exercise make us happy! Win win.

Stimulate Your Mind: Stay curious by reading, mastering a new skill, and challenging your brain every day. It’s always good to keep learning as we age and it keeps our minds sharp all the while.

Prioritize the ZzZzs: Brains need a reset each day, so don’t skip on the shut-eye. If you’re curious how much sleep you should be getting to give your brain the rest it needs and deserves, check out this resource from the Sleep Foundation.

Manage Your Health: Work with your doctor to stay on top of chronic conditions (e.g. high blood pressure or diabetes).

Be Social: Spending quality time with friends and family is good for your brain. This can be as simple as picking up the phone to catch up with a friend, or meeting up in person. Whatever you feel comfortable with!

Stress Less: Activities like yoga or meditation help reduce anxiety and improve mood and relaxation. Make these rituals a part of your routine for a happier, less stressful day.

Pick Brain-Healthy Foods: Make it easy by adding a healthy scoop of frozen wild blueberries to your morning regimen – it’s honestly the tastiest brain food you’ll find. With 2x the antioxidants and 33% more brain-healthy anthocyanins than ordinary blueberries, wild blues have been linked to brain health and cognitive performance for years. And now there’s growing evidence from numerous studies that suggests eating wild blueberries daily, no matter your age, may be a practical and effective part of a brain-healthy diet.

Need some inspiration for meals that incorporate brain-healthy wild blueberries? Check out our Cognition Kitchen Guide – it outlines the science, lifestyle tips, and of course delicious recipes. We also have an extensive recipe library that includes dozens of ways to incorporate wild blueberries into your family’s daily meals. From smoothies to entrees, we’ve got you covered.

No matter what the next year has in store, do your brain a favor and prioritize your noggin with these seven tips. Looking for more brain health information? Visit our website. Happy 2024!

The Wild Difference: Celebrating Wild Foods Day All Month Long

Fall has officially arrived here in Maine, which means Wild Foods Day is right around the corner! Wild Foods Day is celebrated on October 28th., but we wanted to kick things off a little early so we can enjoy our favorite wild foods all month long! For thousands of years, humans have been foraging the land to collect and eat the naturally grown foods that Mother Earth provides for us. In celebration of Wild Foods Day, let’s discuss what makes wild blueberries, well…wild.

What classifies these little blue gems as wild?

Many people don’t know that there are two types of blueberries–cultivated (or ordinary) blueberries and wild blueberries. Our farmers don’t plant wild blueberries but nurture these naturally occurring berries where Mother Nature put them more than 10,000 years ago. They are just here. Wild blueberries actually germinate on their own and spread through an underground rhizome system. Because they are naturally occurring plants, this is what makes them truly “wild”!

The History of the Wild Blueberries

Wild blueberries emerged on the desolate plain which is now known as ‘The Barrens’ of Maine, Eastern Canada, and Quebec, following the retreat of the glaciers more than 10,000 years ago. These native berries thrive in extremely cold harsh conditions and have to protect themselves against environmental stressors. It’s the reason why wild blueberries have such a high anthocyanin content..Anthocyanins are the plant compounds found in the skin of the wild blueberry that give them their pretty purply blue hue. A growing body of research suggests anthocyanins work to reduce inflammation and are beneficial to humans. Wild blueberries have 33% more anthocyanins than ordinary blueberries—giving you a big leg up when it comes to keeping your brain and body running strong. According to the first documentation of their use, wild blueberries were first consumed both fresh and dried for their flavor, nutrition, and healing qualities. They have never been hybridized or genetically modified by humans to enhance or alter characteristics.

Instead, they modify completely on their own to make diverse and genetically different varieties of wild blueberries within every field. This diversity is what gives each wild blueberry a unique blend of intense and deliciously complex flavors–or as we like to call it the “blueberry-est flavor around.”

How Wild Blueberries Grow

Wild blueberries have an extensive underground rhizome system–as much as 70% of the plant actually lives underground–spreading horizontally in the few inches of organic matter atop the sand and gravel of glacial soil below. These berries are grown in two year cycles, and are pruned to help promote the health and fruitfulness of the plant. Once pruned, new stems sprout from the rhizome, grow, and form flower buds which turn into those little wild blueberries we all love! Because they grow in this way, they are only harvested during the late summer months each year. That’s why fresh wild blueberry season in Maine is a truly special time of year. Otherwise, you can buy frozen wild blueberries year round in the frozen foods aisle of your local grocery store (just make sure it says “wild” on the packaging).

Why Choose Wild Blues?

Choosing wild over ordinary blueberries is the way to go for many reasons, but our top five are because wild blueberries…

1. Have a more intense blueberry flavor:

Thousands of naturally occurring diverse plants in every field combine to create a potent and complex flavor ranging from tangy tartness to succulent sweetness that ordinary blueberries can’t match.

2. Possess more Antioxidant Power:

33% more brain healthy anthocyanins and 2x the antioxidant capacity of ordinary blueberries makes wild blueberries the berry healthy bodies and brains crave.

3. Are Smaller (with a stronger punch):

Smaller wild blueberries offer a higher skin-to-pulp ratio; meaning less water and more antioxidant-rich pigments, more fiber, and more intense blueberry flavor per serving.

4. Are Grown Wild & Local:

As 1 of 3 native North American fruits, wild blueberries are never planted. They grow wild in the thin glacial soils and harsh northern climate of Maine – the very same place where Mother Nature put them more than 10,000 years ago.

5. Are Frozen at Peak Freshness:

Harvested at the peak of Maine summer, 99% of the wild blueberry crop is frozen fresh within 24 hours ensuring all the taste and health benefits are ready for you in the frozen fruit section of the grocery store.

Join us in celebrating Wild Foods Day a little early by trying some frozen wild blueberries! We promise they’ll dress up any meal or snack, or you can simply enjoy them as they were meant to be…frozen, delicious, and wild.

Brain-Healthy Breakfast Recipes to Start Busy School Mornings Off Right

It’s that time of year again–some kids have already had their first day of school while kids here in Maine are just heading back to the classroom. While it’s still a little unclear what the school year will ultimately look like for your child–either in-person learning or remote–we want to say a big thank you to all the parents out there.

While we can’t help with the homework, we can help with making your mornings a bit easier. For most families, mornings are super busy but breakfast is the one meal during the day that parents tell us they have complete control over what their child eats. So, why not make breakfast filled with brainy-healthy foods to give your kiddos a great start to their school day? Here’s a little breakfast inspiration: six wild blueberry breakfast recipes that will help nourish your child’s brain. With 33% more brain-healthy anthocyanins and 2x the antioxidants of regular blueberries, adding a healthy scoop of wild blueberries to your kid’s morning is a great way to begin the day.

Try these grab-and-go Wild Blueberry Mini Muffins

The morning goes quickly, especially when you’re juggling so much! Out of time? No problem, these quick and easy, grab-and-go Wild Blueberry Mini Muffins are the perfect solution. Simply bake them in the evening, store them in a tupperware container, and everyone will be able to grab a yummy muffin on their way out the door in the morning.

Pro tip: throw them in the microwave for 15 seconds to make it nice and warm before biting into some wild muffin goodness.

Whip up some Wild Blueberry Zucchini Bread

Start your day on a nutritious note with our Wild Blueberry Zucchini Bread—a delicious and wholesome treat designed to fuel young minds. Packed with vibrant wild blueberries and nutrient-rich zucchini, this bread offers a delectable way to kick-start your mornings. Wild blueberries are best in this recipe because they add a bold, tart flavor and their small size means more berries per bite.

Prep some Dried Wild Blueberry Almond Granola

Bursting with nutty almonds and antioxidant-packed dried wild blues, this Dried Wild Blueberry Almond Granola not only supports cognitive function, but also delivers essential nutrients that growing bodies need. Prepare a batch in advance and enjoy it as a quick weekday breakfast or as a topping for yogurt parfaits.

Have dessert for breakfast with Wild Blueberry Crumb Cake

With ‘cake’ in the title, this is an easy make-ahead breakfast option that tastes good and may encourage your kids to eat breakfast–especially if they think they’re getting away with eating dessert in the morning. Wild Blueberry Crumb Cake tastes delicious without sacrificing added nutrients.

For the toast fans out there, try some Coconut Peanut Butter Wild Blueberry Toast

If your child loves old-school PB&Js, try this homemade spin-off: Coconut Peanut Butter Wild Blueberry Toast. Using just seven simple ingredients, top your grain of choice (e.g., whole wheat bread, an english muffin, or whatever your child loves!) with some wild blueberry goodness.

Blend up a Mix-In-A-Pan Wild Blueberry Snack Cake

Introducing a hassle-free marvel for busy mornings: Mix-In-A-Pan Wild Blueberry Snack Cake! The ease of preparation makes it an ideal option for hectic school days—simply mix the ingredients in a single pan and pop it in the oven. Plus, it’s a versatile delight that can be sliced into convenient portions for breakfast on-the-go or as an after-school pick-me-up.

Did you know that research has found wild blueberries to have a positive effect on your child’s memory, decision making, response times, concentration, and mood? That’s why wild blueberries should power your family’s morning to make for a great day ahead. If you try one of the above breakfast recipes, let us know which one your kids loved the most! Take a picture, post on social, and tag us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter so we can see your kids’ *wild* breakfast. If your profile and/or post is public, we’ll be sure to repost it on our stories or respond. Can’t wait to see what you come up with for your family!

Fresh Wild Blueberry Season is Officially Here–Celebrate with Us in Maine

If you’ve grown up in Maine or spent a lot of time in Vacationland, then you know that summer means one thing: fresh, wild blueberry season! For a lot of us, wild blueberry season certainly brings back fond memories of raking wild blueberries, filling buckets and eating them before you get home, making tasty pies, or buying fresh wild blueberries at a local farm stand. During this time of year, we also like to recognize the farmers and all the hard work that goes into harvesting these naturally occurring, wild berries that Mother Nature put there more than 10,000 years ago.

As one of North America’s three native fruits, wild blueberries have never been planted, and are only commercially harvested in Maine and parts of Eastern Canada during late summer. Many of the 485 Maine farmers who carefully steward and harvest these wild blueberries have been doing so for generations and have created a unique heritage. To celebrate this wild, native-to-Maine berry, let’s dive into more information about where they come from, their health benefits, and more.

Why Wild Blues are Different Than Ordinary Blueberries

Maine currently has more than 38 thousand acres of wild blueberries, primarily in the Midcoast and Downeast regions of the state, and each field contains thousands of different varieties of wild blueberry plants. Looking at a field is a site to behold. You’ll see a tight-knit, ankle high carpet of color waves ranging from purple to blue, and it’s this variety that translates into a distinct taste ranging from sweet to somewhat tangy that when combined is often described as the “blueberriest” blueberry flavor.

Did you know that wild blueberries provide you with a higher skin-to-pulp ratio than ordinary, larger blueberries? Since wild blueberries are much smaller, they contain less water (making them great for baking), and possess more antioxidant-rich pigments, more fiber, and a more intense tangy, sweet flavor than ordinary blueberries. These wonderous wild berries are also loaded with 33% more brain-healthy anthocyanins than normal blueberries. Anthocyanins are the plant compounds found in the skin of the Wild Blueberry that give them their pretty purply-blue hue.

Each summer, farmers all over Maine collectively harvest millions of pounds of wild blueberries. While 99% of the harvested crop is frozen at peak ripeness to lock in nutrition and taste, a small amount is sold fresh at local markets, roadside farm stands, fairs and festivals, or used in value-added products like jam, syrup, wine, beer, and more. If you can’t make it to Maine during fresh season, you can purchase frozen wild blueberries in the freezer aisle of your local grocery store–just make sure it says “wild” on the packaging!

Celebrate Our Native Berry During Wild Blueberry Weekend, August 7-8, 2021

This year, we’re celebrating Maine’s native berry and the hardworking farmers that harvest this iconic crop during the first annual Wild Blueberry Weekend. On August 7^th and 8^th, people will have the opportunity to visit 15+ farms participating in the event to rake wild blueberries, learn about harvesting practices, and see where their food comes from. Mainers and visitors will also be able to try wild blueberry-themed menu items at 40+ participating restaurants, inns, bars, and wineries across Maine. The best part? You can plan your weekend to fit your family’s interests. Visit Downeast Maine to pick wild blueberries, or simply check out a local establishment that has wild blues on the menu. Learn more about Wild Blueberry Weekend and plan your Eat, Drink, Experience itinerary today!

Summer Camp Lunchbox Friendly Wild Blueberry Recipes

It’s officially summertime, which means that there are tons of adventures waiting for you and your family around every corner–think warm nights spent around the campfire, scenic hikes, lake dips, and best of all, yummy wild blueberry dishes! As the world begins to return to some semblance of normality and the kids start summer camp, you may be looking for some quick, kid-friendly snack ideas to keep their lunchboxes–and bellies–full. Add an extra dose of brain-healthy goodness to your kids’ lunches by adding a scoop of wild blueberries to some tried-and-true lunchbox favorites.

Need some camp lunchbox recipe inspiration? We’ve got you covered.

Power your kid’s camp morning with Wild Blueberry French Toast Pinwheels.

If camp has an early morning start, these super packable Wild Blueberry French Toast Pinwheels are a great go-to. Just stick a toothpick in it, grab some Tupperware, and *BAM*, these bite-sized pinwheels are ready to travel with you wherever you go!

Your kids will love grabbing a big handful of this Dried Wild Blueberry and Almond Granola.

One thing we know for certain: granola is the best camp snack around. It’s so easy to pack and our Dried Wild Blueberry and Almond Granola recipe can be eaten with yogurt or by itself. It’s also a great calorie-dense option that will provide your kids with a tremendous amount of protein and fiber. Pack them something that tastes great and is super easy to scoop with their hands, straight out of the baggie. You can even get them involved in preparing this recipe. Easy peasy, wild blueberry squeezie (that’s the saying right?)!

Whip up some No-Bake Wild Blueberry Energy Bars to keep your kids going throughout the whole day!

Pack your kiddos some healthy and energizing No-Bake Wild Blueberry Energy Bars to help get them through their fun, but long, summer days at camp. This quick and easy recipe only requires an hour in the fridge, and then its ready to be packed away for a fun day in the sun. Limited parent time, kid taste tested and approved.

Skip the sugary grocery store fruit roll-ups and make your own Wild Blueberry Fruit Leather.

This three-ingredient recipe is a healthy alternative to sugary, store-bought roll-up snacks your kids might already be familiar with. Transform delicious, frozen wild blueberries into a tasty yet chewy, Wild Blueberry Fruit Leather for the kids to snack on throughout the day. Packing your kiddos’ lunches with some wild blueberry goodness will help fuel their day with brain-healthy goodness. Did you know that research has found wild blueberries have significant positive effects in children on memory, decision-making, response times, concentration and mood? If you pack some of the above recipes, let us know which one your kids loved the most. Take a picture, share on social, and tag us Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to share your kids *wild* camp experience!

Have A Wild Kickoff to Summer this Memorial Day Weekend

There’s nothing quite like Memorial Day Weekend (MDW) to signify that warmer summer days are officially on their way (especially here in Maine). As MDW approaches, you’re probably dusting off your sunglasses and digging out your long forgotten about sunscreen as you get ready to enjoy a few days in the backyard, a park, at the lake, or on the beach. But have you decided on which recipes are on your list to celebrate the weekend?

Well, we’re here to help give your MDW a dash of wild and a whole helping of deliciousness. For those of us living in New England wild blueberries definitely are the taste of summer–but for those that aren’t, you can have a little dose of Maine summer by picking up frozen wild blueberries at your local grocery store in the frozen foods aisle.

Check out a few of our favorite family-friendly (and grill-friendly) recipes that include frozen wild blueberries.

Mix up a cocktail/mocktail to sip while grilling – Wild Maine Collins

For a refreshing but healthy cocktail/mocktail, whip up a Wild Maine Collins. This refreshing drink screams “summer is coming” and will get you in the mood for a weekend of family fun.

While you wait for the grill to heat up, start with some Wild Blueberry Jalapeno Poppers

Start off your backyard picnic with a little kick and a whole lotta flavor with Wild Blueberry Jalapeno Poppers. These tasty appetizers are great to offer alongside veggies and dip or some watermelon to make sure everyone doesn’t go hungry waiting for the main course. Dig in!

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Coat your wings, ribs, or kebabs in Wild Blueberry BBQ Sauce

Every grill master seems to have their own take on what makes the best BBQ sauce, but we’re throwing a new one into the ring. Give our Wild Blueberry BBQ Sauce a try and we promise your family will be begging for seconds. If you don’t eat meat, this sauce also makes for a great dipping option with meat alternatives.

Throw together a tried-and-true Caesar Salad, but give it an upgrade with wild blueberries

Caesar salads are always a crowd pleaser, but what if you gave your salad an upgrade? Try adding wild blueberries in for a yummy, summery take on this refreshing appetizer.

Top of your family’s meal with a frozen but healthy treat: Wild Blueberry Yogurt Pops

A holiday meal isn’t truly complete without a sweet treat at the end–but make it healthy with Wild Blueberry Yogurt Pops. These pops will become a fast family favorite and are a sneaky way to incorporate brain healthy wild blueberries into something sweet. Just be careful of brain freeze!

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How are you spending your MDW? Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with us and share your *wild* weekend plans. We can’t wait to see what you cook up! Have a wonderful, sunny, and safe weekend.