The Health Benefits of Berries

Berries can help prevent cataracts, heart disease, ward off cancer, prevent constipation, helps control cholesterol levels, slows down the aging process for the body and mind, and reduce the risk of infection.

 Berries are high in vitamin C, which is one of the most powerful antioxidants. Strawberries are one of the richest sources of vitamin C. A half cup of strawberries contains 70 % of the daily value.

 Berries are also high in fiber. A half cup of blackberries has more than 3 grams of fiber, while a half cup of raspberries has 4 grams.

 Black Raspberries are one of the best low fat sources of vitamin E. It is tricky to get Vitamin E in low fat foods as it is usually found in high fat foods.

 To get the most nutrients out of your berries, buy them at their peak freshness. The easiest way is by color. Blackberries should be jet black; raspberries should be black, red or golden; blueberries should be a powdery blue; and strawberries a bold red. Eat them fresh as cooking destroys large amounts of vitamin C.

How to care for your berries
 Fresh berries are highly perishable and need special handling to maintain their freshness. Berries should be dry, not wet or leaking from their package. When storing, do not crowd them. It is best to store them unwashed in the container you bought them in and wash them right before you eat them. If you pick your own, store them in a large bowl or spread out on a platter. All berries freeze well.  IQF freezing, (Individually quick frozen). Lay berries on a tray single layer, not on top of each other and put the tray in the freezer. When frozen put the berries in freezer bags.