Feature Story: The buzz over a new Saskatchewan fruit crop

Abstract

Even so-called ‘super-foods’ need a boost. That’s what a U of R Biology Major, Danae Frier, is trying to do to a little known fruit called Haskap. The berry is grown in select areas of Saskatchewan and is highly regarded in Japan where Haskap has been described as ‘the fruit of life.’ “Haskap is a fruiting shrub, like a blueberry. As for its taste, it’s tart and sweet,” says Frier. “The fruit is very high in anti-oxidants and anthocyanins, which may have health benefits.” Frier has been on a research mission to help boost Haskap yields for Saskatchewan growers. In this case it’s about the bees. Haskap needs help from pollinating bees to produce fruit. The greater the pollination, the greater the yield.