Food Ticket: eat your way to Peru with blueberries

Prime blueberry season in most countries runs from June to August, but Peru’s climate and topography allow for year-round harvest. These small, bright blue and purple fruits grow above ground on bushes, and each juicy little ball packs a ton of flavour and nutrients, earning them the superfood title. 

Blueberries are rich in vitamin C, potassium, iron, and calcium, and are also a good source of fibre which helps keep everything in the intestines moving and grooving.  

However, what really makes these fruits special is their abundance of natural antioxidant, or anthocyanidins. This is also the same thing that gives them their signature blue and violet hue. The deeper or darker the blueberry, the more anthocyanins, and thus the more antioxidants that are present. 

The anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanidin counteract oxidative stress to support a well-functioning immune system. Not to mention, they can boost brain power and even nourish the skin. 

Blueberries are a convenient and sweet addition to almost anything – salads, smoothies, breakfast cereal, yogurt, baked goods, cocktails, and more. Next time you’re feeling peckish, reach for a handful of Peruvian blueberries, which can be found in most major supermarkets. For the month of October, Redmart is running a promotion on blueberries and a wide selection of dry organic products from Peru.