Blackberries

Blackberries

An ancient fruit prescribed by the early Greeks for gout, blackberries are called an “aggregate fruit” because each berry is really a cluster of tiny fruits (or drupelets). Each drupelet contains a seed.  Unlike raspberries, blackberry drupelets remain centered around the core even after the berry is picked. 


Nutrition facts for Blackberries

A delicious boost for your immune system

The deep dark blue-black that colors each berry signifies the abundance of potent antioxidants that help the body fight cancer, heart disease, and free radical damage.  Just one cup of blackberries contains 135mg of Omega-3 fatty acids and meets 31% of the daily requirements for dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and also aids weight loss and weight management. In addition to Vitamins A, C, E, K, and folic acid, these delectable treats also contain essential minerals calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, and manganese.

Sources:
Duyff, R. (2006). American Dietetic Association Complete Food and Nutrition Guide. Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 18 (2008.)
Health Benefits of Blackberries: A Small Berry with Big Nutritional Benefit
Oregon State University


Q. Do we need to wash the berries before we eat them?

A.
It depends.  If the product is frozen, then you can if you'd like, but it isn't necessary.  See our section on Packaging and Delivery for more information on our frozen process.  For fresh produce, even if it is organic, it's a good idea to rinse the fruit under cold, running tap water just before preparing or eating it.  Using fruit and vegetable washes or soap is not necessary. 
 
 

Q. I'm not a fan of your reclosable package, can you redesign?

A.
Although we regret you were not 100% satisfied, we are happy to inform you that we are on the verge of launching a revamped package design in September.  These new, consumer-friendly packages will feature a zipper-style opening that can be pulled on either side. 
 
 

Q. How do you ensure product quality on the line?

A.
At Townsend Farms, quality and safety is of utmost importance.  We approach our entire business from a family consumption perspective.  To ensure the quality of what's inside each frozen bag as well as the bag itself, our Quality Team removes 6 bags every 20 minutes from the line to review package and product integrity.  Through this system, any issues are able to be resolved immediately.
 
 
Availability
End of June through first week October

Care and Handling
Choose blackberries that are moderately firm, plump, dry, and uniform in purplish-black color.  Among the most perishable of fruits, blackberries can quickly mold within 24 hours when left at room temperature and are best used the day of purchase.  They can last 2 days in the refrigerator when stored dry on paper towels in a covered container or plastic wrap.