About the fruit we grow

Based in Aberdeen, Scotland, we are the proud to be the only commercial grower of the saskatoon berry in the UK.

Saskatoons berries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that grow on shrubs native to North America.

They are often found in the prairies and woodlands of Canada, and have a unique flavour that combines a slight tartness with nutty/cherry undertones. Their blue-purple hue and round shape are reminiscent of blueberries, but saskatoons have a distinctive taste that sets them apart. 

These berries are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that offer numerous health benefits. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, fibre and antioxidants. Antioxidants are natural compounds that help protect the body against damage from harmful molecules called free radicals. A diet rich in antioxidants has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and Alzheimers.

Saskatoon berries are versatile and can be eaten fresh, cooked or dried. They are well suited to harnessing the health benefits by eating raw or adding to smoothies, porridge, ice cream, fruit drinks or to add an interesting flavour to your cooking. 

One of the unique aspects of saskatoon berries is their cultural significance. Indigenous peoples in North America have been using saskatoon berries for centuries for both food and medicine. The berries were traditionally dried and stored for use in the winter months, and they were often used in ceremonial feasts and as offerings to the spirits. As a result, saskatoon berries hold a special place in the cultural heritage of the region.

A saskatoon berry looks similar to a blueberry but is even healthier; packed with high levels of antioxidants, fibre, vitamins and minerals. They have high levels of beneficial anti-oxidants called flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity properties, the saskatoon fruit has therefore become a research hot spot in recent years. In fact the saskatoon has been shown to contain FIVE times the anti-oxidants of a strawberry! Studies have also demonstrated that they can help improve beneficial gut bacteria  counts which helps promote well-being.

Saskatoon berries are also low in calories and high in fibre, making them an ideal choice for individuals who are looking to maintain a healthy weight or improve digestive health.

They have twice the Vitamin C content and seven times the amount of calcium found in blueberries.

Being a unique fruit, we are currently working on product development with the SRUC and will be producing products packed full of our saskatoon fruit. We are also soon to be working with the Rowett Institute in Aberdeen to look at the health benefits in more detail and to find ways that the health benefits can be harnessed into food. 

You will be able to pick your own saskatoons in July - booking required - by donating to one of our chosen charities - keep an eye on our website and our Instagram/Facebook feeds. 

A 100-gram portion of saskatoon berries contains the following:

• 84.85 calories
• 1.33 grams of protein
• 0.49 grams of fats
• 18.48 grams of carbohydrates
• 5.93 grams of dietary fiber
• 11.36 grams of sugars

Honeyberries, also known as Haskap Berries are a new super berry! 

Native to the northern hemisphere, they have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their unique sweet-tart flavour and various health benefits.

A teardrop shaped berry that is similar in colour to a blueberry. It has a soft shell, a sweet-tart taste and a juicy centre.

In a study reported in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, March 2005, researchers found the honeyberries to possess the highest content of phenolic acids compared to other berries tested. They tested them against blueberries, mulberries, juneberries, blackcurrants and blackberries. The fruit consistently produced the highest level of antioxidants.

They contain significant sources of potassium, calcium, phosphorus and iron. They have twice the Vitamin A and four times the Vitamin C of Blueberries.

They are naturally high in antioxidants which have clear demonstrated health properties.

Currently most of our honeyberries are supplied to Forest Farm; less than 1 mile from our farm. They are produced into seasonal super healthy sorbet - available in June and July. Our plants are still maturing and will produce higher levels of fruit each year which will allow us to explore other markets!

Overall, honeyberries are a delicious and nutritious addition to any diet. They are easy to incorporate into recipes and can be enjoyed fresh or frozen.