Smucker’s blueberry syrup has been a breakfast staple for decades, known for its rich blueberry flavor and versatility on top of pancakes, waffles, and more. However, in recent years, some consumers have found it difficult to locate Smucker’s blueberry syrup on store shelves, leading to questions around whether it is still being produced. This article will examine the history of Smucker’s blueberry syrup, its current availability, and some recommended alternatives in case you cannot find it in stores near you.
Brief History of Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup
Smucker’s traces its roots back to 1897, when Jerome Monroe Smucker began selling apple butter from the back of a horse-drawn wagon. The company was incorporated as The J.M. Smucker Company in 1921 and has been family-run for four generations. In the 1950s, Smucker’s expanded beyond fruit spreads into syrups, introducing their blueberry syrup in 1958. It quickly became popular due to its thick, concentrated texture and real blueberry taste. For over 60 years, Smucker’s blueberry syrup has been a favorite option for topping off breakfast foods and using in recipes.
Is Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Still Made?
Yes, Smucker’s blueberry syrup is still manufactured and sold today. According to Smucker’s website, it is available in 16 oz plastic bottles at grocery stores and mass retailers nationwide. However, some shoppers have recently reported difficulty finding it on store shelves. There are a few potential reasons for this:
Distribution Issues
Like many products, Smucker’s blueberry syrup may be impacted by supply chain disruptions and labor shortages causing distribution issues in some regions. While still produced on a large scale, the syrup may not be reaching all retailers consistently.
Seasonal Production
As a real blueberry product, availability of the fresh fruit may cause production to slow at certain times of year leading to temporary shortages. Smucker’s likely makes larger batch runs during peak blueberry harvesting seasons.
Lack of Consumer Demand
Although still beloved by some longtime fans, Smucker’s blueberry syrup may not be selling as frequently as in its heyday. With more flavor options on the market, consumer demand may have dipped low enough that stores don’t prioritize keeping the product in stock regularly. However, devotees continue to seek it out.
Where to Buy Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup
If you are struggling to find Smucker’s blueberry syrup locally, here are some tips for tracking it down:
- Check with larger grocery stores and superstores like Walmart, Costco, etc. Their high volume may mean more consistent stock.
- Ask at the customer service desk whether it’s carried in-store but perhaps sold out.
- Look in the pancake syrup section and on displays near frozen breakfast foods.
- Search online to see if nearby stores have it in stock for in-store pickup or delivery.
- Check during peak blueberry season in mid-summer when new batches may hit shelves.
- Buy directly from the Smucker’s website which has an online store locator.
Being flexible on bottle size, trying different retail outlets, and increasing search efforts during summer harvest times can help locate elusive Smucker’s blueberry syrup. Casting a wide net improves the odds of tracking it down.
Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Nutrition Facts
One serving (1⁄4 cup or 60mL) of Smucker’s blueberry syrup contains:
| Calories | 180 |
|---|---|
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 25mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 44g |
| Sugars | 43g |
| Protein | 0g |
It has significantly higher sugar content than Smucker’s regular pancake syrup. The blueberry syrup contains no fat, negligible protein, and just 25mg of sodium per serving. The calories come almost entirely from carbohydrates in the form of natural sugars.
Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Ingredients
Smucker’s blueberry syrup contains just two ingredients:
- Glucose-fructose
- Blueberry juice from concentrate
The glucose-fructose blend makes up the thick syrup base that supports the blueberry flavor. Rather than using plain sugar, Smucker’s adds the blended glucose-fructose syrups which have a mix of simple sugars glucose and fructose. This likely enhances the texture and sweetness.
The concentrated blueberry juice provides the signature blueberry taste and color. Using juice concentrates allows Smucker’s to procure and condense the flavor at times of peak freshness and ripeness.
So while sweet, the two natural ingredients give Smucker’s blueberry syrup a pure fruit flavor profile. There are no artificial preservatives, colors, flavors, or thickeners.
Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Uses
Smucker’s blueberry syrup is intended as a topping for breakfast foods but can also be used in various recipes, including:
- Pancakes, waffles, French toast, crepes
- Oatmeal, yogurt, cottage cheese
- Milkshakes, ice cream sundaes
- Fruit salad dressing
- Sweet glazes and sauces for meat
- Blueberry cakes, muffins, cookies
- Mix into peanut butter
- Stir into coffee or tea
Its versatility comes from the thick, pourable consistency and pronounced blueberry flavor. Just a drizzle can take a plain breakfast up a notch or bring a fresh fruit flavor to otherwise sweet or savory foods. It holds up well in baking and mixing into chilled foods like ice cream.
Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Storage
An unopened bottle of Smucker’s blueberry syrup has a shelf life of about 2 years from the manufacture date. Once opened, it will stay fresh for about 1 year in the refrigerator. Look for the “Best By” date on top of the bottle cap to determine overall freshness before opening.
To maintain quality after opening, be sure to recap the bottle tightly. Store it in the refrigerator to prevent mold growth and preserve the flavor. The high sugar content allows the opened syrup to resist spoiling for up to a year when properly stored.
If using infrequently, consider transferring the syrup to a smaller leakproof container. This reduces air exposure each time you open the bottle. A squeeze bottle or container with a tight seal helps retain freshness.
Signs Your Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Has Gone Bad
Watch for these signs that your opened Smucker’s blueberry syrup has spoiled and needs to be discarded:
- Liquid is very runny and no longer thick like syrup
- Changes from deep purple color to brown or gray
- Strong medicinal or chemical smell
- Visible mold spots anywhere in the bottle
- Bubbles or fermentation when bottle is shaken
The syrup normally has a thick, glossy appearance that pours slowly. Dramatic changes in texture, color, or aroma indicate it has gone bad. If you see any of these warning signs, safely toss the syrup in your sealed trash can.
Popular Smucker’s Blueberry Syrup Alternatives
If you can’t get your hands on Smucker’s product, try one of these other top-rated blueberry syrup brands:
Maple Grove Farms
- Made from blueberry juice, cane sugar, natural flavors
- All-natural with no preservatives
- Pure blueberry taste perfect for pancakes
- Comes in squeezable plastic bottles for easy use
Monin Blueberry Syrup
- Premium gourmet brand made in France
- Sweet, tangy wild blueberry flavor
- Versatile syrup for beverages, desserts, cocktails
- Beautiful purple color from natural ingredients
Torani Blueberry Wave Syrup
- Blends blueberry and maple flavors
- Made with pure cane sugar
- Thick, pourable consistency
- Good pancake syrup replacement
Hungry Jack Blueberry Syrup
- Bright, sweet blueberry flavor
- Made with real fruit juice
- Thick syrup consistency
- Budget-friendly option
These alternatives offer similar thickness, sweetness, and blueberry flavor profile without artificial additives. Maple Grove Farms is an all-natural choice while Monin and Torani add gourmet flair. Hungry Jack is a very affordable alternative.
Can You Make Your Own Blueberry Syrup?
Yes, it’s possible to make your own homemade blueberry syrup using fresh or frozen berries, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice. Here is a simple stove-top method:
- Wash and drain 1 pint of blueberries.
- In a saucepan, crush berries lightly with a potato masher or fork.
- Add 1 cup of sugar and 2 Tbsp lemon juice to the berries.
- On medium heat, bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat.
- Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring and skimming foam as needed.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Pour through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Press juices out of the blueberry pulp; discard skins and seeds.
- Return liquid to saucepan and simmer uncovered until thickened to desired consistency, about 10 minutes.
- Cool syrup completely then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 1 month.
The natural pectin in the blueberries will help thicken the syrup as it reduces. Adding a bit of cornstarch can further thicken the end result. Particularly ripe berries will create the sweetest flavor.
This homemade version won’t have the exact same mildness as Smucker’s but offers a fresh-tasting, preservative-free alternative. Feel free to experiment with the sugar and lemon juice to suit your tastes. Small batches like this are ideal for seasoning pancakes or yogurt.
Conclusion
Smucker’s blueberry syrup remains an iconic breakfast condiment but can be elusive on store shelves these days. While still in production, supply chain disruptions may make buying it a challenge. With some perseverance checking larger grocery stores, buying direct online, and tracking seasonal supply spikes, fans can get their hands on a bottle. When a backup is needed, brands like Maple Grove Farms, Monin, Torani, and Hungry Jack provide tasty alternatives. And homemade recipes let you craft your own version bursting with fresh blueberry flavor. So fear not – with a little effort you can enjoy the timeless taste of Smucker’s blueberry syrup or a suitable replacement on your morning pancakes.
