Latest news with #blackberries
The Guardian
a day ago
- Climate
- The Guardian
Early ripening of berries in UK shows nature is under stress, say experts
Autumn is the 'season of mists and mellow fruitfulness', according to the poet John Keats – but anyone hoping for a glut of blackberries this September may be sorely disappointed. In many parts of the UK brambles have been bursting with fruit since mid-summer, with some now bearing only shrivelled berries. And it is not the only hallmark of autumn that appears to have come early: trees are dropping their leaves, apples are ripe and acorns are hitting the ground. But with temperatures still high, experts say this is not simply a case of an early fall. Instead, they say, nature is under stress. England has just had its fourth heatwave of the summer, with temperatures reaching up to 33.4C, and five areas of the country are in drought. 'A lot of what we're seeing has been caused by a very hot and very dry spring and summer, it's been one of the driest periods on record,' said Kathryn Brown, the director of climate change and evidence at the Wildlife Trusts. 'So it feels like autumn has come early, but it's due to the natural environment reacting to that very extreme spring and summer, which is not average conditions that our species are adapted to in terms of seasonal cycles.' Brown said some birch and poplar trees had already turned brown and were losing their leaves, while in her own garden acorns were already falling from oak trees. 'Trees will set seed [earlier] as a reaction to stress, because they're trying to employ an insurance strategy,' she said. There have also been warnings about trees suddenly dropping branches. While the cause of this phenomenon is not clear, it often occurs after a prolonged period of dry weather. According to the Met Office's State of the UK Climate report, climate changes are causing shifts in many biological events in the UK. Prof Tim Sparks, a co-author of the report, noted that plants and insects were becoming active earlier in the year. Sparks said earlier fruit ripening was a result of higher temperatures, with shrivelled blackberries arising because of a lack of water. 'Leaf drop is also a water issue; it's not autumn in the sense it's not the end of the growing season if we get more rain,' he said. While trees are dropping their leaves because of drought, Sparks said a warmer climate would generally be expected to result in trees holding on to their leaves for longer. Together with earlier fruit ripening, he said, that would result in a longer autumn. While shifts in the timing of natural events can be discombobulating for humans, the ramifications could be serious for wildlife. As Brown points out, birds such as blackbirds tend to predominantly eat insects in the spring and summer and feed these to their chicks when they are breeding. 'But in the autumn, they switch to seeds and berries and fruits like blackberries. And if they've already come and gone, there's going to be a food gap in the autumn,' she said. Brown said this had serious implications for animals trying to get ready for winter, when food is scarce. 'It's very hard to predict what the exact impacts are going to be for different species, but it is very worrying, because the seasonal cycle is completely out of whack at the moment and our wildlife is not adapted to that, so it's definitely much more chaotic for them,' she said. Farmers are also coming to terms with unpredictable weather. While the National Farmers' Union said farmers and growers around the country were facing a varied picture in terms of crop yields this year, Rachel Hallos, its vice-president, said the increasing extreme weather was affecting farmers' ability to produce food. 'Although parts of the country have seen some rainfall, and farmers are no strangers to unpredictable weather, the extremes this year have been unprecedented,' she said. 'Last year's harvest was marked by heavy rain; this year, it's the lack of it. These fluctuations of drought and flood are becoming more pronounced and more regular.' Hallos said food security must be a national priority and she called for the government to support farmers and growers to build resilience, stressing that investment was needed in climate adaptation and resilient crop varieties as well as water infrastructure. Hallos's concerns are supported by data from the Met Office, which has revealed winters are getting wetter and temperature extremes have increased, becoming more frequent and more intense. This June was the warmest ever recorded in England and the second warmest for the UK since records began in 1884. Brown said a key concern was that the current conditions were occurring with global warming at about 1.5C above preindustrial levels, yet higher levels of warming were expected. 'That's what really worries me is seeing the impacts now at this relatively low level of warming where things are already getting really stressed, and thinking about what's this going to be like in five years or 10 years, or even next year,' she said. 'It's quite hard to predict, but it doesn't look very hopeful.'
Telegraph
a day ago
- General
- Telegraph
In defence of blackberry picking
On holiday in West Wales last week, the blackberries were the best I've ever seen. They gleamed jet black from the hedgerows, dangling in enticing trusses over the grass verges, glossy fruit the size of cocktail olives peeking through the fences and at field edges. We filled bags, boxes, and even my hat – a few purple stains being small price to pay for another few pounds of the sweet, well-flavoured fruit. As a child in the Seventies and Eighties, I'd have been shoulder-to-shoulder with plenty of other families busily stripping the berries from the bushes. But while passing strangers nodded approvingly at the sight of our brimming containers or flashed thumbs up as they drove past, we encountered no one else picking, and the quantities of over ripe and 'gone over' berries suggested no foragers had made an earlier harvest. The same is true in my home city of Bristol, where I gather blackberries from loaded patches on the Downs alone. I'm not the only person who has noticed a petering out of blackberry picking. In a recent letter to the Telegraph, reader Kate Pycock of Ipswich remarks 'in recent years I have noticed that I seem to be the only person who picks any' of the blackberries plentiful near her Suffolk home. So why the decline? After all, with the cost of living crisis, and awareness of the health benefits of fresh fruit, you'd think that the availability of free berries would be a godsend. I blame the pernicious rise in risk aversion. I don't mean just a few bramble scratches (although stories of unpleasant, but very rare, incidences of hogweed burns suffered by foragers don't help). But worse than that, we've lost the ability to trust food that doesn't come with a label. We have delegated responsibility for the safety of what we eat to the supermarkets, so if something goes wrong, it is their fault not ours. I'm often advised to pick only berries above dog-leg-cocking height, as if the (literally) low-hanging fruit was in some way permanently contaminated. My answer is two-fold: if it makes you feel better, by all means look further upwards for your berries. But also, don't imagine that the pristine-looking produce in sealed plastic on the supermarket shelves has been untouched by wildlife or vermin, both in the field and in the storage units prior to packaging. So pick your berries, and wash them in a large bowl of cool tap water. TikTok may be awash (literally, again) with tips to use vinegar, salt, bicarb, or all three, but there's no need unless you like the flavour of vinegary, salty or soapy fruit... Obviously, we don't wash all of them. Quite a few (yes, ok, high-up ones) make their way into my family's mouth as we pick. Partly it's because there's something very special about sun-warmed berries straight from the plant, but also there's the game of chance – will it be sweet or sour? The different wild cultivars on a single country lane manifest themselves with subtle, and not so subtle, flavour variations. It's biodiversity, the environmental buzzword of the decade, in action on your tastebuds. As Kate Pycock says on the decline of blackberrying, 'whatever the reason, it makes me sad.' Me too, although it does mean I have a freezer full of fruity booty, and a tray of blackberry-and-apple flapjacks in the oven right now. Berry lovely.
The Guardian
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Cocktail of the week: Lardo's blackberry and tequila tommy – recipe
A neat little seasonal twist on the classic margarita, and simplicity itself to pull together. Serves 1 8 fresh blackberries 50ml tequila – we use El Tequileño25ml agave syrup – we use Beso25ml fresh lime juice Put six of the blackberries in a cocktail shaker, then muddle (ie, bash) them to bruise and release some of their juices. Measure in all the liquids, add a big handful of ice and shake hard. Double-strain into a coupe (chill it first, if you like), and serve with the remaining two berries impaled on a cocktail stick for garnish. Nathan Woodhead, Lardo, London E8
Yahoo
19-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Blackberries Regularly
Reviewed by Dietitian Karen Ansel, M.S., RDNWhat To Know About Blackberries Blackberries are rich in nutrients that may support brain, heart, bone and immune health. They are packed with fiber, antioxidants, copper and vitamins C and K. Enjoy them in smoothies, salads, desserts and baked goods or as a topping for yogurt or ice there's a quintessential summer experience, it's digging into a big bowl of ripe berries. Blackberries, in particular, shine during the summer months—all plump, juicy and sweet. And that's a good thing because blackberries are really great for you. 'Blackberries are a healthy fruit choice because they are nutrient-dense and contain fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and a variety of antioxidants,' says Eliza Whitaker, M.S., RDN. Read on to learn exactly why blackberries are a top fruit choice, and how to make them a delicious part of your meals and snacks: Why We Love Blackberries They're Rich in Antioxidants What's the first thing you notice about blackberries? Did you say their deep purple color? Blackberries aren't just nature's eye candy. The plant pigments that give them their stunning violet hue, called anthocyanins, also happen to be powerful antioxidants, says Whitaker. 'Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to aging, inflammation, heart disease and cognitive decline,' she adds. They May Support Brain Health Another plus for anthocyanins? They may boost your brain health. Anthocyanins may help protect against neurodegenerative diseases, says Lindsay Fencl, RD. Research suggests that these potent plant compounds may do this by fending off oxidative stress (an imbalance of free radicals that promotes damage) in the brain. This, in turn, may reduce inflammation and may protect against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. While more research is needed to confirm these protective benefits in blackberries, eating a big handful of anthocyanin-rich blackberries certainly couldn't hurt. They May Improve Heart Health One of blackberries' hidden perks is their high fiber content, specifically a whopping 8 grams of fiber per cup. 'Adding just 1 cup of blackberries to breakfast or as a snack can get you one-quarter of the way to your daily fiber goal,' says Fencl. You've probably already heard that fiber can help keep your digestive system regular. It also takes care of your heart. Higher dietary fiber intake is associated with reductions in total cholesterol, harmful LDL cholesterol and blood pressure. In fact, research shows that consuming ample fiber may reduce some heart risks (especially blood pressure) in people who already have heart disease or hypertension."'Blackberries are a healthy fruit choice because they are nutrient-dense and contain fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K and a variety of antioxidants.'" -Eliza Whitaker, M.S., May Help Build Strong Bones One of the surprising health benefits of blackberries is their potential to support bone health. Why? Blackberries are an excellent source of vitamin K, an often overlooked nutrient for bone health (1 cup gives you 25% of your entire day's worth!). 'Vitamin K is important for the proper metabolism of bone tissue, as it assists in the formation of proteins that help bind calcium to the bone matrix,' says Wan Na Chun, M.P.H., RD, citing research that adequate vitamin K intake is linked to a lower risk of osteoporosis and bone fracture. Blackberries also give you a trifecta of magnesium, copper and potassium, minerals that are all linked to better bone health.,, They Are an Excellent Source of Vitamin C Move over, oranges. One cup of blackberries packs more than a third of your daily vitamin C requirement. This vitamin may be best known for its role in immune health, but it benefits your health in a variety of other ways. 'Vitamin C helps the body make collagen, which is a protein that is important for skin, bones, cartilage and blood vessels,' says Chun. It can also help improve the absorption of the iron found in plant foods, known as non-heme iron. That's especially a perk if you follow a vegetarian or vegan eating plan or limit your meat intake. And finally, vitamin C works as an antioxidant to protect cells from damaging free radicals that set the stage for disease, says Fencl. Nutrition Information Blackberries are an excellent source of heart-healthy fiber. They're also rich in copper and vitamin K for strong bones, plus vitamin C, which is essential for skin and immune health. One cup of raw blackberries contains the following nutrients: Calories: 65 Carbohydrates: 14g Dietary fiber: 8g Total sugar: 7g* Added sugar: 0g Protein: 2g Total fat: 0g Saturated fat: 0g Cholesterol: 0g Sodium: 2mg Vitamin C: 32mg (36% Daily Value) Vitamin K: 30mcg (25% DV) Copper: 0.25mg (28% DV) *Sugar in blackberries is naturally occurring Are Blackberries Safe for Everyone? Blackberries aren't a top cause of food allergies However, it is possible to have an allergic reaction to fruits in the Rosaceae plant family, which includes blackberries, raspberries and strawberries, among other fruits. Symptoms of allergic reactions may include hives, flushed skin and an itchy mouth, throat or skin. In severe cases, food allergies can cause life-threatening symptoms like difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure. If you are allergic to blackberries, you should avoid eating them. 5 Ways to Enjoy Blackberries These sweet berries are perfect when eaten by the handful or in a juicy fruit salad. They also shine in a variety of savory and sweet recipes. Here are some tasty ways to enjoy them: Add blackberries to breakfast: Mix fresh blackberries into yogurt, cereal or oatmeal, says Chun. Try them alone or combined with blueberries and raspberries in a sweet bowl of overnight oats. Or, sprinkle them on top of whole-grain toast with goat cheese and almonds. Transform them into dessert: Nothing beats a blackberry crisp for a summertime dessert. Or, whip up a warm blackberry sauce to pour over creamy vanilla ice cream, or use it to zhuzh up plain yogurt (it's also delicious on pancakes and French toast!). Whip them into smoothies: Frozen blackberries are a fantastic way to add fiber and antioxidants to your smoothie. Toss them into salads: One of Fencl's favorite ways to eat blackberries is to toss them into a summer salad with spinach, berries, candied pecans and goat cheese. They're also fantastic in a spinach salad with avocado and walnuts. Add them to cocktails or mocktails: Blackberries are a stunning way to liven up cocktails and mocktails. Simply muddle them in a cocktail shaker, add ice and some gin (or sparkling water), shake, strain and top it all off with more sparkling water. Our Expert Take If you're wondering if blackberries are good for you, the answer is a resounding yes! Not only are they sweet, juicy and delicious, blackberries are rich in heart-healthy fiber and disease-fighting antioxidants called anthocyanins. These tasty little treats are also loaded with nutrients that may help support brain health, build strong bones and support a healthy immune system. While blackberries are delicious on their own as a snack, there are loads of tasty ways to enjoy them. Add them to yogurt, cereal or oatmeal, bake them into desserts, whip them into smoothies or toss them into salad for a hit of sweetness. Frequently asked Questions Are blackberries better for you than blueberries? Not necessarily. Both blueberries and blackberries are healthy fruit choices. Choose the one you like best. Or, better yet, eat both regularly. People who make fruit (and veggies!) part of their dietary pattern are more likely to live longer compared to those who don't. What is the healthiest berry to eat? There isn't one healthiest berry to eat. Berries are all loaded with health-promoting nutrients. This may explain why research has found that berry eaters have healthier diets than people who don't usually eat berries. Additionally, berry eaters tend to have better measures of heart health, like lower systolic blood pressure, total and LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and higher beneficial HDL cholesterol. Research has also linked berry consumption to a lower BMI, a smaller waist circumference and lower fasting insulin. What are the benefits of eating blackberries? Blackberries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which benefit cognitive health and help neutralize disease-causing free radicals. They are also rich in vitamin C for skin and immune health, and are packed with heart-healthy fiber. Read the original article on EATINGWELL
Yahoo
05-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Why Blackberries Are So Good for You, According to Nutrition Experts
Blackberries are gorgeous berries that pop up in grocery stores and farmers' markets just about everywhere in the spring and summertime. While you're likely aware of the health benefits of blueberries and strawberries, you may be less informed about the benefits of blackberries. Here, get the low-down on blackberry nutrition from two dietitians and several recipes to help you usher this superfood into your Zeitlin, a New York City-based registered dietitian and founder of BZ Nutrition Amy Gorin, RDN, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant Based with AmyRelated: 6 Types of Fruit That Are Loaded With Fiber—Plus, Delicious Ways to Eat More of Them "Blackberries are loaded with vitamin C, which helps to strengthen your immune system and keep your skin looking plump and fresh," says Brigitte Zeitlin, a New York City-based registered dietitian and founder of BZ Nutrition. "They are also high in manganese, which works to keep your bones strong and healthy." Berries, including blackberries, are high in free-radical-fighting antioxidants. Blackberries, in particular, contain anthocyanins, which have antioxidative, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. They've been linked to improved vision and brain health. In addition, they offer protection against diseases such as diabetes and cancer due to their ability to protect against free radical damage. Related: 10 Foods That Are Rich in Flavonoids to Reduce Inflammation, Boost Collagen, and More Blackberries are also high in fiber, which helps you feel fuller for longer, says Amy Gorin, RDN, a plant-based registered dietitian and owner of Plant Based with Amy in Stamford, Connecticut. Blackberries' fiber content is also crucial because research has shown that not getting enough fiber can increase your chances of having heart disease. "Eating blackberries may help your LDL, or 'bad,' cholesterol levels," Gorin says. "According to a review study in Scientific Reports, people who regularly ate berries had lower LDL cholesterol levels, versus the people who were not regularly eating berries." Blackberries are also rich in vitamin K, which can help with blood clotting and bone metabolism. Being deficient in vitamin K can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding or make you prone to bruising. If you're on blood thinners, getting enough of this nutrient from blackberries is a great option. Additionally, one study showed that regular blackberry consumption could promote good dental health, and another showed it could help with brain health and prevent memory loss related to aging. While you don't need to be super concerned about overdoing it on blackberries, you may have stomach discomfort if you eat too many due to their higher fiber content. If you have a sensitive stomach, you're likely better off keeping it to a small handful of blackberries per serving. And because they're so dark in color, blackberries may also cause you to see changes in color in your urine if consumed in large amounts, similar to beets. This also isn't cause for concern, so don't feel alarmed if it happens. Related: The 35 Healthiest Foods to Eat Every Day Read the original article on Real Simple
