Shake with frozen blueberries = gelatinous

[Losing Laura]

Does anyone make shakes with frozen blueberries? I make my shakes in the morning and bring them to work so it sits in the fridge for a while. When I make shakes w/ frozen strawberries or peaches, everything is ok but if I use frozen blueberries the shake is gelatinous when I grab it for lunch. Like I can't even shake it in the cup - think Jello. It is disgusting!
Any ideas why this happens? I'm wondering if it is something in the blueberries having a reaction w/ the flax oil, flax seeds or protein powder. So odd that its only the blueberries...

[LSue]

Actually Laura.....there is a reason.

Although I have to say, I haven't had the experience because I routinely use 12 ounces of Cranwater in my smoothies. Blueberries contain a type of pectin, (think jellies) an enzyme that causes fruit mixtures to set. So if you make your blueberry smoothies several hours ahead, this pectin is causing them to thicken...alot. Also, apparently the thickening factor is greater when frozen blueberries are used. So you are definitely not crazy!

Solution? If your smoothies need to be kept for several hours, I would probably not use straight frozen blueberries. Maybe a mixed berry smoothie? I also love blueberries and peaches together. Or cherries... Also, don't forget that ground flax and chia seeds expand quite a bit when immersed in liquid, which is only adding to yoour thickening woes. So perhaps, add them separately, right before drinking.

Thanks for bringing this subject up...always something new to learn!

[MichelleO]

Interesting!!

[lizbeck]

I actually like the jello effect, for something different. It's like eating pudding.

[MillieB]

I juiced 2 red delicious apples with about 4 oz fresh blueberries this morning and served it over ice... the blueberries made it thick in odd clumps. It took a bit to get used to it without gag reflux kicking in. That is just regular juiced fruits too. I will keep in mind the blueberry / pectin issue once I receive my Shakedown order!!!

~Millie

[Tinkster]

I juiced 2 red delicious apples with about 4 oz fresh blueberries this morning and served it over ice... the blueberries made it thick in odd clumps.

Hi there MillieB!
I've found that the "clumping" (from the blueberries) occurs less when the smoothie is made with the ice in the blender (rather than served over the ice), and I simply add more water when I make them. Try things around and you'll come up with the PERFECT mix!