Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, May 14: It is the season of fruits now. There is great demand for seasonal fruits in the coastal districts. Blueberries, which are considered to increase immunity due to its high antioxidant nature, are in high demand and the price has also seen steep increase.

The rate of blueberries has shot up to Rs 600 to Rs 800. Generally this fruit arrives from Andhra Pradesh, Belagavi, Bijapur in addition to Vamadapadavu, Bajpe, Kinnigoli, Bantwal, Moodbidri and Udupi to the central market in the city. However, this year outstation blueberries have still not arrived in the city. Hence, the rate has skyrocketed.

The yield of this fruit has gone down. Moreover, no one is ready to pluck the fruit from the tree. Earlier, school children used to do this job. But now most of them are hooked on mobile phones. According to agriculturist Cyril D’Souza of Shirtady, removing fruits without damaging their skin is a skilful and tedious job.

Blueberries are considered as very beneficial to diabetic patients. According to Ayurvedic expert Dr Narayana M of Bikarnakatte juice and kashaya made of blueberries is very effective in controlling sugar levels.