
As you peruse the produce department, you will undoubtedly find that it will be costing you more to shop this week due to recent world events. Cool weather and rain in Texas will cause onion prices to rise again. The grape market was already struggling with short supplies of red and green seedless grapes when the devastating earthquake hit Chile last weekend. And, the strawberry growing areas in Southern California have received much above average rainfall. But when 94% of US households consume strawberries, cost doesn't seem to always be an issue!
The fragrantly sweet juiciness and deep red color of strawberries can brighten up both the taste and aesthetics of any meal; it is no wonder they are the most popular berry in the world. Although strawberries have become increasingly available year-round, they are at the peak of their season now through July. We all know strawberries are delicious, but they are also nutritious:
- They contain a range of nutrients, with vitamin C being the most abundantÂ
- They also contain significant levels of phytonutrients and antioxidantsÂ
- Strawberries also provide an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese, as well as folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, copper, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids
Some strawberry fun facts:
- Strawberries are the only “Inside-Out” fruit, with the seeds being on the outside
- The average strawberry has 200 seeds
- Strawberries are a member of the rose family
Strawberries have a history that goes back over 2,200 years. Strawberries grew wild in Italy as long ago as 234 B.C. and have been grown in California since the early 1900's. Today, over 25,000 acres of strawberries are planted each year in California and the state produces over 80% of the strawberries grown in the United States.
Purchase strawberries only a few days before they are to be eaten. Be sure to choose berries that are plump, firm, free of mold and have a deep red color. Unlike other fruits, strawberries do not continue to ripen after they are picked, so be sure to buy the ripest, reddest strawberries, as they will provide the best taste and the highest nutrient density. Always remember – never wash the berries until you are ready to use them!
A delight to our senses, strawberries are beautiful to our eyes, sweet to our taste, fragrant to our olfactory glands, and juicy in our mouths. Yum! Makes one want to enjoy a bowl of strawberries right now!


