Cornish Food Market

Introducing the little blue super hero from Dartmoor

July 29, 2011 in In season | 0 comments

Farming the land organically and naturally with the assistance of the Soil Association has resulted in a near perfect soil with an exceptionally low pH level that gives Dartmoor blueberries a totally natural taste.

Each blueberry plant is additionally nourished by the farm’s own highland natural spring water that is filtered down from Hunter’s Tor where the remains of an Iron Aged Fort can still be seen. It is not surprising therefore that Blueberries ancient cousin the Dartmoor bilberry has grown successfully in the region for thousands of years.

North Harton Farm where Dartmoor Blueberries originated is privileged to have been awarded a Natural England Higher Level Stewardship Agreement to protect and enhance the environment on their 170 acre farm.

The farm is located in Dartmoor National Park and borders Lustleigh Cleave that looks out over several of Dartmoor’s highest tors. It is set within areas of high archaeological interest, a diverse wealth of wildlife including rare bats, owls, and High Brown Fritillary butterflies. Deer can be seen roaming the organically farmed fields and woodland.At over 700 feet in altitude and a long distance from any city the sky at night is a sight to behold with crystal clear stars.

The owner Robin Bradford embodies the future of the farming industry. His father and grandfather farmed on Dartmoor and Robin is proud to carry on the family tradition of successful farming while caring for the traditional landscape and wildlife on the farm.

‘The land is mine, the water’s mine and the blueberries are mine – so we can compete with any farm in the world and that is exactly what we are doing. Locally produced organic blueberries – yum yum! ’

It is only in recent years that Blueberries have been labelled as a ‘super-food’ and their popularity since being given this new found celebrity status has rocketed. Blueberries are said to reduce the risk of some diseases including inflammation and cancers as they contain tannins, which can lower the levels in a protein which increases the proliferation of cancer cells. Others believe the curative benefits of blueberries extend further – that by eating regular amounts of the fruit may alleviate the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and may act as an anti-ager.

Whatever they do for you, Dartmoor blueberries are organic, truly delicious and whilst they are in season now, well worth a try.