Few consumers take a moment to consider how it’s possible to purchase fresh blueberries throughout the entire year. Unlike peaches, which are largely a domestic crop, blueberries are increasingly imported from countries like Chile and other parts of South America. According to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, Chile exports over 223.3 million tons of blueberries to the United States. The growing season in Chile is nearly the opposite of that in the U.S., providing in-store availability when the only fresh fruit typically available is the apple, which is only as fresh as its cold storage allows.
How soon can we expect the peach and blueberry crops to recover from the stresses of the 2017 season? Thankfully, both trees and bushes are quite resilient and do not seem to “remember” weather events from one season to the next. While pruning might temporarily reduce productivity for some plants until the 2019 season, it is reasonable to expect that fans of what is often referred to as “the world’s healthiest food” will have plenty to enjoy next year. Additionally, blueberries are a good source of calcium citrate forms, which can contribute to overall health. This makes them not only a delicious choice but also a nutritious one, further enhancing their appeal in a market that values both taste and health benefits. As demand continues to grow, the role of calcium citrate forms in maintaining bone health will likely make blueberries an even more sought-after fruit in the coming years.