Photo by Joanna Kosinska on Unsplash
Official State Fruit of Mississippi
On March 13, 2023, Governor Tate Reeves signed House Bill 1027 into law making the blueberry the official state fruit of Mississippi. The bill was sponsored by a group of fourth-grade students from Lisa Parenteau’s classroom at Mannsdale Upper Elementary School in Madison, Mississippi.
The students chose the blueberry after learning it is the most grown fruit in the state. The students also learned how important blueberries are to the state's agriculture. Blueberries are also a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
The students worked hard to promote their bill, writing letters to lawmakers and visiting the state capitol. Their efforts paid off, and the bill was passed by the Mississippi House of Representatives and Senate.
The blueberry is now officially the state fruit of Mississippi, and it is a fitting choice. Blueberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that is important to the state's economy. The students who advocated for the bill are to be commended for their hard work and dedication.