Blueberries

Ingredient Library

Blueberries

Discover why blueberries are one of nature's richest sources of antioxidant plant compounds and why they are widely used in nutritional supplements.

Blueberries (Vaccinium species) are small blue-purple berries naturally rich in vitamins, minerals and colourful plant compounds known as anthocyanins. These naturally occurring compounds are responsible for the berries' distinctive colour and have made blueberries one of the most extensively researched fruits in nutrition.

Blueberry supplements are available as whole fruit powders and concentrated extracts, allowing their naturally occurring nutrients and polyphenols to be conveniently incorporated into nutritional formulations.

The Basics

Understanding Blueberries

Blueberries

Blueberries are nutrient-rich berries that have been consumed for centuries. Alongside naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, they are particularly valued for their high content of anthocyanins and other polyphenols, which contribute to their deep blue colour and nutritional profile.

Blueberry Forms

Blueberry supplements are commonly available as whole fruit powder or concentrated extracts. Whole fruit powders retain the berry's natural composition, while extracts provide higher concentrations of selected naturally occurring polyphenols in smaller servings.

Naturally Rich in Anthocyanins

Anthocyanins are natural plant pigments responsible for the blue-purple colour of blueberries. These compounds belong to the polyphenol family and have been widely studied for their antioxidant properties. Blueberries also naturally provide vitamin C, manganese and a variety of other beneficial plant compounds.

Key Benefits

Why It’s Used

Antioxidant Protection

Helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

Heart Health

Supports normal cardiovascular health and circulation.

Brain Function

Supports normal cognitive function, memory and mental performance.

Healthy Inflammatory Response

Supports the body's normal inflammatory response.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What are blueberries?

Blueberries are small blue-purple berries from the Vaccinium family. They are widely recognised for their naturally high levels of anthocyanins and other beneficial plant compounds.

What is the difference between blueberry powder and blueberry extract?

Whole blueberry powder is made by drying and grinding the fruit, preserving its natural nutritional profile. Blueberry extracts are more concentrated and provide higher levels of selected naturally occurring polyphenols in a smaller serving.

What are anthocyanins?

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring plant pigments that give blueberries their deep blue-purple colour. They belong to the polyphenol family and are widely studied for their antioxidant properties.

Why are blueberries considered a superfood?

Blueberries are often described as a superfood because they naturally provide vitamins, minerals and a particularly high concentration of antioxidant plant compounds in a relatively low-calorie fruit.

What fruits are related to blueberries?

Blueberries belong to the Vaccinium genus, which also includes cranberries, bilberries and huckleberries. These fruits share many naturally occurring polyphenols and antioxidant compounds.