Haskap Berries: Canada’s Cool-Climate Superfruit

Move over, blueberries—Canada has its own homegrown superfruit, and it’s finally getting the attention it deserves. Meet the haskap berry: a bold, tangy, antioxidant-packed little fruit that’s been quietly thriving in our northern soils for centuries. If you haven’t tried one yet, there’s no better time to get familiar with this uniquely Canadian berry, especially if you’re in Ontario.

What Are Haskap Berries?

Haskap berries (Lonicera caerulea) are native to boreal regions like Russia, Japan, and—yes—Canada. Indigenous communities have long known about this hardy berry, which thrives in cold climates and ripens early, often as soon as late May in parts of Ontario.

They look like an oblong blueberry, with a deep purple-blue skin and an intense, tangy flavor. Many people describe the taste as a mashup of blueberry, raspberry, and black currant. It’s bold, refreshing, and hard to forget.

Proudly Grown in Ontario

In recent years, haskap cultivation has taken off in Ontario, especially in regions like Niagara, Grey-Bruce, and Eastern Ontario, where the climate supports its early blooming and harvesting cycle. Canadian growers have been developing cold-tolerant varieties for years, making haskap berries one of the most promising new crops for small fruit farmers in our region.

One standout grower is Paradise Fields, located in Binbrook, Ontario. This organic farm specializes in nutrient-dense produce grown with care for both people and planet. Their haskap berries are harvested at peak ripeness and packed with flavour—making them a fantastic local option for anyone looking to enjoy this antioxidant-rich fruit right from the source.

Buying Ontario-grown haskaps not only supports local agriculture but also gives you the freshest berries with the highest nutritional value—often harvested and sold within days.

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Don’t let their size fool you—haskap berries are among the most antioxidant-rich fruits you can eat. Some studies suggest they contain up to three times more antioxidants than blueberries, particularly anthocyanins, the compounds responsible for their dark, vibrant skin.

They’re also a great source of:

Vitamin C – for immune support and healthy skin

Dietary fiber – for digestive health

Potassium – for heart and muscle function

This antioxidant content makes them especially valuable for fighting inflammation, supporting brain health, and protecting your cells from oxidative stress.

How to Eat Them

If you’re lucky enough to find fresh haskaps at your local farmers’ market or natural grocer, try them straight-up! They’re tart, juicy, and make an amazing snack. You can also toss them into smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, or salads.

Ontario producers are also crafting haskap jams, syrups, vinegars, dried snacks, wine, and even haskap ice cream. Their intense flavour lends itself beautifully to both sweet and savoury dishes. Think: a drizzle of haskap reduction on roasted vegetables or a spoonful of haskap compote over cheesecake.

Where to Find Them

Haskap season in Ontario is short—usually late May through June—so keep an eye out in spring. Many local farms now offer pick-your-own options or direct-to-consumer sales. Specialty stores and organic markets may carry frozen or dried haskaps year-round, especially as demand grows for Canadian-grown superfoods.

Rediscover a Canadian Original

Haskap berries may be new to many Canadians, but they’ve got deep roots here—literally. With their rich history, local availability, and exceptional health benefits, they’re a true homegrown treasure. So this season, support local growers and treat yourself to one of Ontario’s best-kept (but quickly ripening) secrets!