Blueberry

History and origin

Wild blueberries have been eaten since ancient times, particularly by the indigenous people of North America. In 1615, Samuel de Champlain observed the Native Americans drying them and transforming them into paste for recipes such as a pudding made from corn, honey and water. In traditional medicine, blueberries are prized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In ancient Rome, they were also used as a dye to dye fabrics red. Today, they are still appreciated for their benefits and their flavor, symbolizing a link between tradition and healthy eating.

Variety and cultivation

The blueberry, a 50 cm shrub, grows in acidic soil, often in mountains or hills. Varieties: wild blueberry, small and aromatic, and cultivated blueberry, sweeter. Harvested by hand, it differs from the North American blueberry, with white flesh and a less sweet taste.

Did you know?

The blueberry, once nicknamed “pearl of the mountains”, was used by hunters to improve night vision, a belief that is still widespread.