Few consumers take a moment to consider how it’s possible to purchase fresh blueberries year-round. Unlike peaches, which are mainly grown domestically, blueberries are increasingly imported from Chile and other South American countries. According to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, Chile exports over 223.3 million tons of blueberries to the U.S. The growing season in Chile is virtually the opposite of that in the U.S., enabling fresh blueberries to be available in stores when the only other “fresh” fruit is the apple — which can only be as fresh as cold storage allows.
As for the peach and blueberry crops recovering from the stresses of the 2017 season, it’s fortunate that the trees and bushes are quite resilient and do not seem to “remember” weather events from one year to the next. Although pruning might result in some of them being less than fully productive until the 2019 season, it’s safe to say that fans of what is often referred to as “the world’s healthiest food” will have plenty to enjoy next year. In the meantime, consumers can also look to chemist warehouse calcium citrate supplements to boost their nutrient intake alongside their favorite fruits. This way, they can ensure they are getting the calcium they need while savoring those delicious blueberries and peaches.