True Blue

     Blueberries have been touted as a super fruit.  But what are the actual facts?  Here is the "skinny" about them from the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council:

A 1 cup serving contains only 80 calories.  That same serving size provides 3.6 grams of fiber.  And they are low in fat.



Blueberries deliver 25% of the RDA of Vitamin C.  They also contain Vitamin K and manganese, which is vital for done development.

The polyphenols in blueberries have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  They help our bodies stay healthy and when we are sick they help us to regain our health.  Scientific research is continuing to investigate how blueberries contribute to our cardiovascular & brain health, insulin response and the ability to reduce the risk of certain cancers.

North American blueberry consumption has increased from 15.5 ounces per person in 1995 to 39.5 ounces in 2011.  That's 853 million pounds!

When purchasing fresh blueberries look for ones that are firm, dry, plump and smooth skinned with a silvery surface bloom.  They should be deep purple-blue to blue-black.  Reddish ones aren't ripe and won't ripen after being picked.  Avoid ones that look soft or shriveled or have any signs of mold.  Refrigerate them as soon as you get home, either in the original plastic pack or in a covered bowl or container.  Don't wash them until you're ready to use them, and eat them within 10 days of purchase.