What Are Blueberries?

Blueberries are considered one of the oldest fruits in the world, with a history dating back approximately 13,000 years. They are perennial plants belonging to the Ericaceae family (Vaccinium genus), with more than 450 species distributed worldwide. Among these, varieties suitable for commercial cultivation began to be seriously bred and improved in the 20th century.

In North America, blueberries have long been used by Indigenous peoples for both culinary and medicinal purposes. In the early 1900s, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and research institutions led the development of blueberries as a commercial fruit crop.

Today, North America (the United States and Canada) is the world’s largest blueberry-producing region, accounting for approximately 90% of global production. Blueberries are widely used both domestically and internationally in a variety of forms, including fresh fruit, frozen products, and processed applications.

Nutritional Value & Health Benefits

Loved for their refined sweet-tart flavor, blueberries are small fruits packed with nutrients that support both beauty and health.
Particularly noteworthy are the following three benefits:

1. Anthocyanins for Clear Vision
Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, a type of polyphenol responsible for their deep blue color.
These compounds are known to help relieve eye fatigue, support visual function, and provide strong antioxidant effects.

2. Vitamin C for Beauty and Health
Blueberries contain approximately 9 mg of vitamin C per 100 g, contributing to skin firmness, immune support, and antioxidant protection.
When enjoyed together with other fruits, they help enhance overall nutritional balance.

3. Dietary Fiber for Digestive Health
Blueberries are also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps improve bowel movements and supports a healthy intestinal environment.
Gentle on the stomach, they offer benefits that are especially appreciated for beauty and wellness.

With their charming appearance and rich nutritional profile, blueberries are truly a daily ally for both eye health and overall well-being.
Source: Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan 2023 (Blueberries, raw)
https://fooddb.mext.go.jp/details/details.pl?ITEM_NO=7_07124_7

Storage Guidelines

Blueberries are non-climacteric fruits, meaning they do not ripen after harvest.
As a result, the freshness and quality at the time of harvest directly determine the final flavor.
For this reason, prompt handling and proper temperature control are essential throughout distribution and sales.

Key Points for Maintaining Freshness
1. Refrigerated Storage Is Essential
After arrival, store blueberries promptly at around 5°C.
Pay close attention to excessive dryness or condensation inside the storage area.
Using perforated plastic bags or breathable containers helps maintain an appropriate balance of humidity and ventilation, preventing quality deterioration.

2. Avoid Washing Before Storage
Storing blueberries while wet can damage the skin and promote mold growth.
As a general rule, keep them unwashed during storage and wash only just before sale or serving.

3. Notes on Quality Maintenance
Because blueberries do not ripen after harvest, the quality at arrival is the final quality.
They cannot be improved through storage, so prompt shipment and sale are crucial to preserve their best condition.