Blueberries’ popularity throughout the United States is underpinned by the health benefits they provide, such as antioxidants and vitamin K along with their variety of food preparation. The standard American consumption of blueberries was estimated to be 2.5 pounds for each person. In the United States, being the Blueberry’s home, is the most prolific producer in the world, producing more than 200,000 tonnes.
The harvest in the U.S. is mostly of lowbush and highbush varieties which include Oregon, Washington, California, New Jersey, Georgia, Michigan, Florida, and North Carolina being the leading states. Maine although not the most prolific producer, is known for its blueberries, and has made the blueberry a part of its culture. in its culture and identity.
The countries that follow in the footsteps of United States in production are Canada, Chile, Peru, Spain, Mexico, and Poland which demonstrate the apprehension of blueberries to different environments due to the wide variety between cultivars and species. The time for picking for Canada and the U.S. and Canada runs between April and September and different varieties mature with different timings. In the absence of this time, blueberries that are sold in U.S. markets are likely originate in Southern Hemisphere countries, ensuring the availability of blueberries all year long. In addition, the market supports blueberries that are dried, and are stored as long as 18 months, thereby extending the availability of blueberries in global markets, beyond the fresh-cut produce season.
Source: tastingtable.com