Berry pickers in Finland discover rare white and pink blueberries due to genetic mutations

During the summer season, berry pickers in Finland are encountering blueberries in various unexpected colors, including white, which is a genetic mutation of the fruit. Kauko Salo, an emeritus researcher at the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), explains that mutations occur continuously in nature, with some thriving while others perish shortly after arising. He notes that white blueberries are quite rare but should be more frequently found given the thousands of berry pickers in the country.

In response to inquiries about unusual blueberry colors, over 700 observations were reported, leading to conversations with those who discovered white, greenish, and reddish blueberries across Finland. Hannamaija Fontell, who has had a summer cottage in Nauvo for over 20 years, has frequently found white blueberries on her island. Initially, only a few were discovered, but the population has expanded over the years. Now, both white and blue blueberries grow together in the same area.

Jukka Kärkkäinen from Oulu has been picking blueberries in Vaalaa for a decade and recalls mistaking white blueberries for unripe lingonberries the first time he encountered them. Meanwhile, teacher Samuli Ollikainen found white blueberries while out picking berries with his students in a sandy forest dip.

Additionally, Markku Palomäki from Ylöjärvi has been harvesting pale green blueberries near his home for the past three years, while Tarja-Sisko Similä discovered pink blueberries in Pälkäne, noting their milder taste compared to typical blue varieties. Tuija Pohjola from Kotka has also found both pink and even pinkish-red blueberries during her foraging trips, choosing to protect the bushes rather than relocate them.