Blueberries are a superfood that’s rich in antioxidants that are known to promote heart health, bone strength, a healthy mind and it has a low glycemic index which is great news for those who are watching their blood sugar levels.
Blueberries are not native to this part of the world but thankfully, we are still able to get our hands on this superfood in various forms such as fresh, frozen and dried.
Have you ever wondered what’s the difference between these food options? The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council shares some useful information about blueberries in its different forms.
- Fresh
With just one cup of blueberries, you’ll enjoy 3.6 grammes of fibre and if you’re a weight watcher, you’ll be happy to hear that it’s just 80 calories. Fresh blueberries are also a great source of vitamin C and vitamin K. It helps to support your immune system, bone health as well as protect your cells.- How to enjoy them: You may include blueberries in your juice, blend them in a smoothie, turn it into jam and even pop some onto your muffin batter and bake it. Fresh blueberries are paired well with just about anything including salads, meat and desserts.
- Frozen
Frozen blueberries make it much more convenient for you to enjoy this superfood. You’re able to store them in a freezer for up to 10 months! This helps to reduce trips to the supermarket and also makes it possible for you to enjoy blueberries all year round. Having them frozen also means that you are still able to enjoy the nutritious benefits as well as the flavour of blueberries.- How to enjoy them: Frozen blueberries are a great substitute for sugar-laden frozen desserts such as sorbets. Instead of a scoop of sorbet, you may pop frozen blueberries in your mouth and cool down from the heat. Besides that, you could also include them in pancakes.
- Dried
Dried blueberries tend to look a little crinkly as compared to its fresh and frozen form and it’s not because they’re rotten but due to the dehydration process of the fruit. Dried blueberries are as flavourful but they tend to be a little tangy as well. One benefit of dried blueberries is its shelf life of about a year and they don’t need to be refrigerated. Though, do take note that there are several types of dried blueberries such as freeze dried, tunnel dried, sweetened and juice infused.- How to enjoy them: You may have them as a snack or create your own snack jar together with other healthy treats. Adding dried blueberries to your breakfast cereal is also another great way to enjoy this form of blueberries.
