Blueberries are in season from May to October and are a favourite fruit for many for its sweet flavour. They are also one of the richest sources of cancer-fighting antioxidants. Here are health facts about blueberries, tips on selecting and storing them and best of all, yummy blueberry recipes!

Blueberry Health Benefits
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants including anthocyanin, which gives the blueberry its vibrant colour. These natural substances are believed to help prevent heart disease, urinary tract infections, certain cancers, and even reverse memory loss and improve vision. In addition to being a good source of nutrients such as iron, potassium and fibre, one half cup of fresh blueberries also provides approximately one-third of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.

Choosing and Storing Blueberries
▪ When selecting blueberries, look for ones that are firm and uniform in colour. The blueberries should move freely when you shake them in the container. They should also be dry as moisture will cause them to rot quickly.

▪ Store ripe blueberries in a covered container in the refrigerator. They will keep for approximately one week.

▪ Don’t wash blueberries until they’re ready to be consumed, as this will destroy their natural protective covering (the whitish bloom which appears on the berries).

▪ You can also freeze ripe blueberries for future use. Freezing blueberries results in minimal loss of nutrients, and they will keep for up to one year. Cooking or processing them, however, destroys the anthocyanins, meaning they will no longer possess the maximum health benefits.

▪ When buying frozen berries, make sure they’re not all clumped together in the bag as this may be a sign of previous thawing and freezing.

Blueberry Recipes
Savory Salad with Goat Cheese and Wild Blueberry Sauce

Crème Brûlée à la Wild Blueberries

Chicken with Blueberry and Pear Sauce

Lemon Blueberry Muffins

Blueberry Streusel