Do you know the difference between blueberries and blueberries? Because no, it’s not the same thing!

When talking about blue berries, it’s common to see the terms “blueberries” and “blueberries” used interchangeably. But is there a difference? Some will argue that it is the same fruit, but with two different names. Others are convinced, on the contrary, that they are two distinct fruits. So here is the answer!

While their color and appearance are similar, their botanical origin and taste hide distinctions. In the case of blueberries and blueberries, they are both part of the same family, “Ericaceae” or flowering plants, and they are also of the same genus, “Vaccinium” (small-fruited shrubs). .

On the other hand, even though they are the same genus, blueberries and blueberries are two different species. Wild blueberries are of the species Vacciniums angustifolium (narrow-leaved blueberries or wild blueberries), while wild blueberries are of the species Vacciniums myrtillus.

In France, the name “blueberry” is the generic term generally used to talk about these berries. To really make the distinction, you must keep in mind that there are two categories: wild blueberries and cultivated blueberries.

The wild blueberry is a small, almost black berry, very fragile which tends to leave your fingers blue when you pick it up or cook it. This blueberry grows on small sub-shrubs of less than 60 cm at ground level in the undergrowth. Its berry is black and slightly shiny, and its flesh inside is dark red. Taste-wise, it is very fragrant and sweet. The blueberry tree is very difficult to grow and the fruits are available exclusively in summer. It is increasingly rare to find them on the shelves, but you can still find wild blueberries in frozen foods.

The cultivated (or shrub) blueberry is, on the contrary, a berry that grows on small groves 2 meters high. Originally from North America, it is found under the name “Bluet des Vosges” when it is cultivated in France. Its blue skin is covered with a light bloom, this very thin white layer that is also found on certain plums or grapes. Inside, its flesh is white. These are rather large fruits, even very large, and have much less taste than wild blueberries.

In addition to their delicious taste, blueberries are full of health benefits. These little blue berries are rich in antioxidants, including compounds such as anthocyanins, which have been shown to protect the body’s cells from free radical damage. This antioxidant action may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease.