Blueberries' Blue Hue Explained by Light-Scattering Wax, Not Pigments

A groundbreaking study reveals the structural coloration behind blueberries' appearance, with implications for sustainable colorant applications.

Blueberries' blue appearance is due to a thin, colorless wax layer that scatters light, not from blue pigments.
The wax layer's microscopic structure is similar to that seen in hummingbird feathers and creates a structural color.
This structural coloration is also found in other fruits like plums, sloes, and juniper berries.
Researchers are exploring ways to replicate this natural wax coating for sustainable and biocompatible applications.
The discovery could lead to new colorant methods and has implications for how animals perceive fruit colors.