Why blueberries are so cheap right now

Most households eschew the punnets of blueberries at the grocer or supermarket, but low prices might have shoppers doing a double-take and thinking twice.

Blueberry prices have been as low as $1.90 a punnet, or three for $5 on special, at major supermarkets in recent days.

Blueberries, usually among the more expensive fruits, have plummeted in price this season.Credit:Shutterstock

Only about one in five households buy a punnet of blueberries or more each year. And on average, those who do add them to their trolley eight times a year, spending about $4.60 each time. But at these prices, and with the current cost-of-living pressures, they’re an option for those conscious of their hip pockets.

Rabobank associate analyst Pia Piggott said “fruit deflation” during summer was part, but not all, of the reason behind the drop in prices.