By Andi Anderson
A recent study examined how blueberry quality changes during 30 days of cold storage. It compared northern highbush (NHB), southern highbush (SHB), and rabbiteye (RE) blueberries to evaluate differences in taste and health benefits.
Key Findings
Sugar Content: Blueberry sweetness, measured by °Brix, remained stable across all types and storage times. Cold storage did not reduce fruit sweetness.
Acid Content: NHB and RE blueberries maintained their acidity throughout storage, while SHB showed a slight decrease in acidity during one study year but remained stable the next year.
Sweet-Tart Balance: The sugar-acid ratio, an important flavor indicator, remained unchanged for NHB and RE types. SHB showed a slight increase during one study year but was stable the next.
Anthocyanin Content: Anthocyanins, which contribute to blueberry health benefits and color, remained constant across all types, ensuring their nutritional value after storage.
Study Details
Blueberries were collected during harvest seasons from Georgia, Michigan, Canada, and Indiana. Stored at 4°C, their quality was measured over four timepoints within 30 days. Tests analyzed sugar content, acidity, sweet-tart balance, and anthocyanin levels using advanced equipment.
The findings show that blueberry taste and nutritional traits remain stable during cold storage. The study challenges preconceived biases about the quality differences among NHB, SHB, and RE blueberries.
For farmers and distributors, this research highlights the durability and consistent quality of blueberries during storage, emphasizing their suitability for long-term storage and transport.
Categories: Indiana, Rural Lifestyle