Blueberries

Blueberries are edible, smooth-skinned dark blue berries of several Vaccinium species, grown predominantly in North America. V. corymbosum yields highbush blueberries and V. angustifolium lowbush blueberries. Similar in flavour to European bilberries, they contain a wide range of phytochemicals and antioxidant vitamins, notably anthocyanins. Eaten raw or in baked and other processed foods, from muffins to jams, they are among the most researched berries for health effects. Their natural waxy bloom protects them briefly after harvest, but rapid cooling and gentle handling remain essential for quality.