Scientists Uncover the Secret Behind Blueberries' Blue Hue

A new study reveals that blueberries appear blue due to a layer of wax that scatters blue and UV light, not from blue pigments.

Researchers found that blueberries' blue appearance is caused by a structural color mechanism involving a wax layer.
The wax layer contains tiny structures that scatter blue and UV light, making the fruit appear blue to humans and blue-UV to birds.
This discovery could lead to new, sustainable colorant methods, including biocompatible and edible UV and blue-reflective paint.
The study, published in Science Advances, highlights the importance of wax's structure in visible coloration of fruits like blueberries.
Scientists plan to explore more accessible methods of recreating and applying this blue-UV coating.