During World War II, the United States government established a rationing program to ensure that essential goods were distributed fairly among the population. Blueberries were one of the items that were rationed during the war.
Under the rationing program, blueberries were classified as a canned fruit, along with peaches, apricots, and pineapples. Each person was given a certain number of ration points each month, which they could use to purchase these canned fruits.
However, fresh blueberries were not widely available during the war due to transportation and labor shortages. As a result, canned blueberries became a popular choice for households looking to incorporate fruits into their diets.
Blueberries were a nutritious and easy-to-store option that could be used in a variety of dishes, including pies, cakes, and even sauces for meat dishes. They were also a popular ingredient in soldiers’ rations, providing a source of vitamins and nutrients during their time of service.
After the war, rationing ended, and the demand for fresh blueberries increased. The blueberry industry expanded, and today, the United States is one of the largest producers of blueberries in the world.
Dr. Sarah Smith is a blueberry expert and author of BlueberryExpert.com. She has been growing and studying blueberries for over 20 years. Her research has focused on the different varieties, growing techniques, and nutritional content of blueberries. She is passionate about helping people to grow their own healthy blueberries and has been a leader in the industry for many years.