Planet Money How the War on Drugs got us... blueberries
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Apr 4, 2025 Discover the surprising connection between blueberries and the war on drugs. The show explores how U.S. initiatives helped Peruvians transition from coca to crops like asparagus and blueberries. Personal stories reveal the challenges faced by farmers in this shift, highlighting resilience amidst corruption. Learn about the blueberry boom, driven by trade agreements and U.S. demand. Taste tests showcase the Biloxi blueberry's reliability despite its flavor. Pop culture also plays a role in shaping consumer preferences for this wintertime delight.
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Year-Round Blueberries
- Erika Barris craved blueberries all winter and found Peruvian blueberries readily available.
- This was unusual as fresh blueberries were not available year-round in the past.
Cocaine and Blueberries
- The availability of Peruvian blueberries year-round is linked to the war on drugs.
- This surprising connection is explored in this Planet Money episode.
Andean Strategy
- The US Andean strategy aimed to reduce cocaine production by destroying coca plants and offering alternative crops.
- This involved military action, aid, and economic incentives.