Plump, sweet blackberries grow wild across most of North America and are a good source of manganese and tannins. The blackberry is actually an ancient fruit, prescribed by the Ancient Greeks for gout, mentioned in the Bible, and commonly written about in British folklore.

Blackberries abound in antioxidants, such as anthocyanin pigments, responsible for the purplish-black color of blackberries and may impart health benefits because of their antioxidant properties. Additional antioxidants in blackberries are vitamins C and E, and ellagic acid; all may provide protection against cancer and chronic disease.

Cooking does not seem to destroy ellagic acid, so even blackberry jams and desserts retain ellagic acid health benefits. Interestingly, blackberries are a natural source of salicylate, an active substance found in aspirin. Potential benefits have yet to be explored and some experts advise caution to particularly aspirin-sensitive individuals. Because of their many tiny seeds, blackberries are a source of soluble fiber, such as pectin.

North Carolina Blackberries Growers/Shipper List

Cooling/Storage Requirements of North Carolina Blackberries