StrawberriesFun food facts

  • In France, strawberries were cultivated in the 13th century for use as a medicinal herb. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C and fibre.
  • Ontario strawberries are at their peak in June and July. But good news - day-neutral strawberries can be found from May to October in Ontario!
  • More than 15 million pounds of strawberries are grown every year. That's roughly 40 million jars of strawberry jam!

Brain teaser

Strawberries are not really berries or fruit, but are instead the enlarged ends of the plant's stamen. The small tan spots are actually the fruit. Strawberries are members of what flower family?

  1. rose
  2. lily
  3. tulip

Answer: a

Photo Courtesy of Ontario Berry Growers AssociationFood quest

Pick your own strawberries

Ask your parents to take you strawberry picking! It’s a lot of fun, and eating Ontario strawberries straight from the farm helps support local farmers. To find a farm near your house, visit Ontario Berry Growers Association.

  • To pick strawberries, gently hold the stem between your thumb and index finger. Carefully pinch and break the stem without squeezing the berry.
  • Enjoy your strawberries with cereal, on Ontario yogurt or dipped in melted chocolate.

Eat it up!

Strawberry smoothie

This fruity, frothy and good-for-you smoothie can be prepared (without the ice cubes) in the blender and refrigerated overnight ready to blend in the morning.

Makes 4 servings.
Takes 5 minutes.
You'll need an adult's help.

You'll need:

  • 2 cups (500 mL) Ontario Strawberries, hulled
  • 1 cup (250 mL) milk
  • 1 cup (250 mL) low-fat strawberry-flavoured yogurt
  • 1 tbsp (15 mL) Ontario Liquid Honey
  • 4 ice cubes
  • 4 Ontario Strawberries

What to do:

  1. in blender, combine hulled strawberries, milk, yogurt, honey and ice cubes; process until smooth
  2. pour into chilled glasses
  3. garnish with fresh strawberry
  4. serve immediately

Tips: Buy local strawberries when in season; wash and remove hulls. Freeze in single layer on baking sheet; transfer to freezer bags and store in the freezer until ready to use. Omit the ice cubes in this smoothie and use frozen strawberries.