Summertime Blues in New Jersey
Summer in New Jersey means the Shore with its beaches and boardwalks. But it also heralds the state’s annual Summertime Blues, the ones that are round, juicy, sweet and delicious! Blueberry season is almost here.
Last year New Jersey farmers sold 53 million pounds of blueberries. Only Michigan produced more. Atlantic County produced 80 percent of the state’s blueberry with Burlington County contributing 15 percent.
Blueberries along with the state’s production of cranberries and grapes are high in antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals that have been linked to development of cancer, cardiovascular and Alzheimer's disease and other medical conditions, according to USDA research.
New Jersey farmers are seeing more and more international competition so state officials are encouraging people to support local farms when buying this blue gem of the Pines! Check the label to see where they're grown and buy local.
To learn more about blueberries and for some tasty recipes visit PineyPower's Blueberry page at http://www.pineypower.com/blueberries.htm If you have a recipe that you'd like to share, please email it to cathy@pineypower.com.
All recipes received will be placed on PineyPower's Blueberry page with an acknowledgement, so don't forget to include your name. If you include your mailing address you’ll receive a "PROUD TO BE A PINEY...." bumper sticker! The web site also offers a list of some U-Pick farms in the Pinelands region.
Call ahead for hours and availability. If you get carried away while picking, simply store the unwashed berries in your freezer in a freezer bag. They'll keep for months!
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