Did you know…?
- Plant City, Florida is recognized worldwide as the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World and is the dominate region in the U.S. that produces strawberries in the winter.
- There are approximately 8,000 acres of strawberries grown in Florida, the second largest producing region in the U.S.
- Eating eight strawberries a day has been shown to lower blood pressure and to improve memory and heart health. Not only that, eating strawberries on a regular basis may lower the risk of some cancers and help reduce obesity.
- Strawberries provide essential nutrients and minerals including fiber, potassium, vitamin C and powerful antioxidants such as anthocyanins, quercetin and ellagic acid.
- The levels of ellagic acid found in strawberries are five to six times higher than in most other fruits and vegetables. In lab and animal studies, ellagic acid seems to have some anti-cancer properties.
- Wash. Bite. How easy is that? When you’re on the go, take strawberries with you in a plastic container or sandwich bag. You don’t even need to keep them cool. Strawberries taste best at room temperature.
- Strawberries must be picked at full ripeness. They cannot ripen once picked.
- Strawberry Shortcake originated with the American Colonists. It’s still a favorite today.
- Strawberries are the favorite fruit of Americans — both children and adults.
- Strawberries are the only fruit that have seeds on the outside — about 200 of them. Each seed has the potential to become a new variety. Strawberry seeds are all those little bumpy spots on the surface of the berry.
- Strawberry is the second most popular natural flavor. Chocolate is number one. Chocolate-dipped strawberries anyone?
- For a fast and delicious snack, spread graham crackers with a thin layer of cream cheese. Top with sliced strawberries to add some crunch. If calories are an issue, select low-fat graham crackers and low-fat cream cheese.
- A dash of balsamic vinegar, lemon juice or orange juice will bring out the flavor of strawberries.