July is National Blueberry Month!
Boost your blueberry knowledge with these fun facts and trivia!
History
- Origin Story: Blueberries date back 13,000 years in North America! Native Americans used them for medicinal purposes and flavoring – the first to recognize their versatility and health benefits.
- Delicious Legacy: Elizabeth White and Frederick Coville, a USDA botanist, produced the first crop of cultivated blueberries at Elizabeth’s family farm, harvesting the first commercial crop in 1916.
Presence
- On the Map: In the U.S., farmers in 26 states produce blueberries commercially.
- In the Culture: The blueberry emoji made its debut on keyboards worldwide in 2020!
Growing Season
- In the Field: Highbush blueberry bushes can grow up to 12 feet tall, but most peak at about 6 feet. Cultivated properly, they can live up to 30 or even 50 years!
- In Bloom: Blueberries start as white blossoms that produce berries when fertilized. As they ripen, they go from green to pinkish-red and then silvery-blue.
Convenience
- Always in Season: Blueberries are available year-round thanks to growers in North and South America. It’s always summer somewhere!
- Stocked Pantries: You can store canned blueberries for 2 years and unopened dried blueberries for 10 years. (But who can wait that long?)
Health Benefits
- Heart-Smart: Blueberries are certified as heart-healthy through the American Heart Association® Heart-Check Food Certification Program.
- Nutrient Notes: As a good source of dietary fiber, blueberries can help you to feel fuller faster and maintain a healthy weight.
Baking Hacks
- Baked Treats in Blue: When baking, add a little lemon juice to your mixture to bring out the blue tones in your dish.
- Polished Presentation: Minimize streaking by gently folding blueberries into your batter at the end of the mix cycle.
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