Few consumers take a moment to consider how it’s possible to purchase fresh blueberries throughout the entire year. Unlike peaches, which are mainly a domestic crop, blueberries are increasingly imported from Chile and other regions in 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 opposite to that of the U.S., allowing for blueberry availability in stores when the only other “fresh” fruit is the apple—whose freshness is limited by cold storage.
As for how quickly the peach and blueberry crops can recover from the stresses experienced during the 2017 season, it’s fortunate that these trees and bushes are quite resilient and don’t seem to “remember” adverse weather conditions from one year to the next. While some pruning may lead to reduced productivity until the 2019 season, it is reasonable to expect that enthusiasts of what is often referred to as “the world’s healthiest food” will have plenty to enjoy next year. Interestingly, this ongoing demand may also spark discussions about the calcium citrate reaction, as it relates to the nutritional benefits of blueberries. In fact, the calcium citrate reaction is an essential topic among health-conscious consumers, particularly as they seek to maximize the health benefits of their favorite fruits. Overall, it’s safe to say that blueberry lovers will not be disappointed in the coming seasons.