Belonging to the order Ericales, family Ericaceae, these angiosperms are scientifically known as Vaccinium Cyanococcus. Blueberries are native to North America with their smaller versions known as ‘lowbush blueberries' and larger ones as ‘highbush blueberries'. The fruition of the blue berry plant takes place in the middle of the growing season which is often affected by altitude and the latitude. The flower is precisely a false berry which is crowned at its opening end.

Nutritional Analysis :

Blueberries are high in fiber content and rich in nutrients such as lutein, zeaxanthin, Vitamin A, Thiamine, Riboflavin, niacin, Pantothenic acid, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and Vitamin E. Calcium, phosphorous, manganese, magnesium, iron, zinc and potassium are the minerals contained in blueberries in considerable quantities as well.

Health Benefits :

Antioxidants: Blueberries are full of myriad antioxidants which protect the body against various hazards in more than one ways. The biggest benefit they provide is preventing the cell damage caused by cancer. This consequently also helps combat similar age-related illnesses. Antioxidants further stop the production of free radicals in the blood stream by their ability to cross the blood brain barrier.

Anthocyanins: The blue color in blueberries is due to the presence of anthocyanins. These are antioxidants which are water soluble. They are highly beneficial in combating heart diseases as well as E.Coli.

Ellagic Acid: Ellagic Acid present in blueberries has been shown to also aid in combating cancer-causing elements in the body.

Catechins: Catechins work by helping to reduce the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. These are mainly phytochemical compounds which are highly active in fighting cell proliferation.

Resveratrol: Resveratrol has been the subject of many studies and has demonstrated not only anti-cancer properties but also anti-viral, neuroprotective, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory abilities.

Preparations :

Blueberries can be eaten fresh in the form of fruit salads, cooked in the form of tarts, oatmeal ingredients, jellies, jams, pies, snack foods or frozen as infused fruits Blueberry juice or blueberry juice powder are the other two ways in which they can be consumed.

References :

NC State Lecture:Blueberries for local sales and Pick-your-own Operations.

Wild Blueberry Network Information Centre.