Career Superstar in the Fruit Collection: Blueberry
Blueberries Soar as the Ascendant Fruit in the Fruit Bowl
The blueberry, once relegated to kitchens for preserves and a patch in grandmas' gardens, has transformed into a globally acclaimed superfood and trendy snack. A recent survey by YouGov, commissioned by the German Press Agency, reveals that nearly half of all fruit eaters in Germany favor the blueberry, positioning it as the Kim Kardashian of the fruit bowl.
The once elusive blueberry has experienced a remarkable surge: from a niche product to the mainstream, gracing every supermarket shelf and Instagram feed, owing to its health benefits and versatility. In 2024, blueberry fields in Germany expanded to cover 3,500 hectares, a 0.9 percent increase from the previous year, and the most widely cultivated bushberry species, according to the Federal Statistical Office. The cultivated blueberry's popularity has only grown, with an estimated 4.5 times increase in imports since 2015.
Interestingly, the popularity of blueberries was not always widespread. In the past, consumers infrequently found blueberries in supermarkets, and when they did, they were obtainable in limited quantities. Today, the berries are available year-round, often in generous quantities, due to advances in farming techniques, production, and shipping technologies.
Several factors contribute to the blueberry's ascent. Its high nutrient content, particularly antioxidants, vitamin E, and manganese, attract health-conscious consumers, making it a staple in diets worldwide. Additionally, blueberries' durability, ease of handling, and suitability for a range of culinary uses cater to modern lifestyles that prize convenience and quality.
The convenient nature of blueberries extends to their long shelf life and adaptability for transportation. Under controlled conditions, blueberries can be stored for four to six weeks, enabling them to be transported via ship from distant regions like Peru, reducing transportation costs compared to air freight. However, the environmental impact of long-distance shipping hasn't deterred the global appetite for blueberries, which continues to thrive as a global snack icon.
Source: ntv.de, Jonas-Erik Schmidt, dpa
- Nutrition
- Health
- Fruit
- Germany
- International Trade
The rising popularity of blueberries in Germany and worldwide can be attributed to their comprehensive nutrition profile, rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and manganese, making them a favored choice for health-conscious consumers in line with the trend of prioritizing wellness. In light of this, policy initiatives regarding community health and wellness, as well as employment in the food-and-drink industry, should consider the potential growth and impact of blueberry farming and trade. As the scientific community continues to uncover the benefits of blueberries, this rich, versatile fruit will likely remain a staple in global kitchens and a symbol of modern lifestyle preferences.
