A small fruit is making a big impact on British diets. A major study released last week has identified blueberries as one of the best and most delicious fruits, linking them to improved stomach, brain and heart health.
The findings come as blueberry consumption continues to surge across the United Kingdom.
According to the study, blueberries are highly effective in improving blood vessel function. This plays a key role in maintaining heart health and supporting overall circulation.
Researchers also noted positive changes in beneficial gut bacteria among those who regularly consumed the fruit. These changes contribute to better stomach and digestive health.
In addition, the study found improvements in memory, reinforcing the fruit’s connection to brain health and cognitive function.
Experts have long encouraged people to include blueberries in their diets, but the latest findings further strengthen their reputation as a “superfruit.”
UK’s growing love for blueberries
The popularity of blueberries in Britain is striking. Every year, British citizens consume around 57,000 tons of the fruit — enough to fill 23 Olympic-sized swimming pools.
British farmers now produce about one-third of the berries consumed in the country. The rest are imported, as blueberries are not native to the UK.
In fact, blueberries were first introduced to the UK in 1952. However, they only began appearing on supermarket shelves in the 1990s. Despite their relatively recent arrival, they have quickly climbed to the top of the country’s favourite fruits list.
Supermarket sales reflect changing tastes
Retail data shows how deeply blueberries have become embedded in British food culture.
Leading retailer Marks & Spencer now earns more revenue from blueberries than from apples and pears. Meanwhile, supermarket chain Aldi sells three times more bags of blueberries than bags of oranges.
Most consumers use blueberries in yogurt, muffins and baked goods, or add them as colourful toppings to fruit salads.
Sales rise by 40% in three years
Blueberry sales in the UK have increased by 40% over the past three years. The surge highlights shifting consumer preferences toward fruits associated with health benefits.
If this trend continues, annual spending on blueberries in the UK could exceed £1 billion by the end of this decade.
Data from World Panel, which monitors the purchases of 30,000 British households, shows that blueberries are especially popular among people aged 55 and over.
