Plump, juicy blackberries are a highlight of the spring and summer. They’re as nutritious as they are delicious, jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Blackberry Basics to Know
Pretty in Purple: Blackberries come in many varieties and have a striking purple-red color so deep it can often look black. The color comes from anthocyanin, a type of antioxidant that helps reduce swelling and pain.
Ready to Eat: Blackberries are perfectly bite-sized. They’re oblong in shape with a white core surrounded by juicy fruit bits called “drupelets.”
Surprise Snacking: Will your berry be sweet as sugar or have a sweet-tart zing? Blackberries vary in flavor, so bite in and find out!
Prime for Picking: In California, blackberry season peaks from May to August, but in lucky years like this one, the berries arrive early in April.
Meet a Blackberry Farmer: Bonita Farms
Farmer Leo Diaz grew up in Mexico and now grows sweet fruit and delicious vegetables in San Bernardino County, California, alongside his brother and cousins. Through Bonita Farms, they supply The FruitGuys with beautiful blackberries, broccoli, carrots, strawberries, and more.
Where to Find Bonita Farms
Blackberry Bonanza!
Blackberries are a healthy and tasty addition to snack time. Pop them in your mouth on their own (the crunchy seeds are safe to eat!) or use them for one of these snack ideas.
How to Eat More Blackberries
Blackberry Pops: Blend up blackberries and orange juice, then pour your smoothie into popsicle molds. Freeze them and enjoy!
Blackberry Cracker Sandwiches: Blackberries and cheese make a great pair. Top a cracker with a dab of cottage cheese and a blackberry, then add another cracker to make a healthy snack sandwich.
Blackberry & Apple Nachos: Slice apples into thin “chips” and layer them on a plate, then top them with fun add-ons like blackberries, granola, and an almond butter or peanut butter drizzle.
Blackberry Frozen Yogurt Bark: Spread yogurt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sprinkle blackberries, strawberry pieces, and granola on top. Freeze your bark, then break it into pieces for a refreshing snack.
Contact Us
For more info on The FruitGuys Farm-to-School Program, contact Carol Stewart at [email protected]
For general info, School Bulletin suggestions, or questions about your Nutrition Education materials, contact The School Team at [email protected]
