L O C A L
P R O D U C T
P R O F I L E S
Blueberries
These popular berries are available at farmers’ markets from late July to early September
How to Use
Ø Enjoy fresh local Nutrition Facts
Ø Blueberries contain tons of vitamin C; a ½ cup serving gives you almost 25 percent of your daily value. Vitamin C helps maintain a healthy immune system and contributes to collagen formation and healthy gums. Ø Blueberries contain antioxidants, which work to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals are linked to the development of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other health conditions. Ø Blueberries can help ward off UTIs. Like cranberries, they contain substances that inhibit bacteria from binding to bladder tissue, which reduces symptoms. Ø Blueberries are a good source of dietary fibre. Ø One-­‐half cup of blueberries provides 41 calories. Local Vendors
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Glenhill Farm
Glenryan Farms
Lazybrook Farm
Wild Rose Farm
o Wild & Blue Farms
o Noggins Farm
And Many More!
blueberries just as they are, or with a splash of cream.
Ø Fresh berries are very fragile
and should be washed
carefully and then gently
patted dry.
Ø Blueberries cook extremely well, and can be featured in many recipes for crumbles, buckles, grunts, cobblers, muffins, jam and even blueberry pancakes with blueberry syrup.
Ø Blueberry pie is an all-­‐time favorite. The best pie berries are said to be those of the low bush variety.
LOCAL PRODUCTS PROFILES
Cost
The average price for blueberries at a local
farmers’ market is $4/pint
Storage
Ø Before storing, remove any crushed or moldy berries to
prevent the rest from spoiling. Don't wash berries until
right before eating, as washing will remove the bloom
that protects the berries' skin from degradation.
Ø Store ripe blueberries in a covered container in the
refrigerator where they will keep for up to 3 days. If kept
at room temperature for more than a day, the berries may
begin to spoil.
Ø For optimum flavor, bring refrigerated blueberries to
room temperature before serving.
Ø High bush and low bush berries freeze well in the same
fashion as raspberries and strawberries (whole, in a single
layer).
Purchasing Tips
Ø Look for fairly firm, sweet-smelling blueberries with no
signs of mold or mildew and no crushed berries in the
box (unless you’re going to eat them right away!).
Ø Choose blueberries that have a lively, uniform hue with a
whitish bloom. Avoid berries that appear dull in color or
are soft and watery in texture.
Blueberry Pops
Yield: Makes 10 pops
Ingredients:
5 cups fresh local blueberries
½ cup water
½ cup sugar
1 Tbsp lemon juice
Directions:
1. In a blender, puree blueberries with water, sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Strain mixture through a finemesh sieve, pressing with a rubber spatula to release as much liquid as possible; discard solids. Add water
if needed to yield 3 cups.
2. Divide among ten 2 1/2 ounce molds; insert wooden sticks, and freeze until solid, about 3 hours (and
up to 1 week). To remove, dip bottom of molds in warm water for 2 to 3 seconds.
2