ACAI BERRY

ACAI BACKGROUND

• It is classified as a berry.
• It most commonly grows in subtropical climates
• It grows off of the acai palm tree.
• They grow in bunches up to 600 berries.

HISTORICAL FACTS

• It was traditionally pulped to make wine that was rich in minerals.
• The acai berry was first used by the tribes of the Amazon jungle for medicinal purposes.
• Traditionally the berries would be picked by hand and the tribe's men would climb it and cut the branches from the top of the palm tree
• There were so many health benefits to it that only the tribes knew about, it was a secret to them.
• After being introduced to the western world, it was pulped and frozen to keep it fresh and became a natural additive to the smoothies drunk in Brazil.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS

• It has very good levels of anti-oxidants, minerals, and vitamins that have health benefiting and disease preventing properties.
• It helps reduce cholesterol, which will reduce heart risks.
• The pulp has good levels of dietary fiber, which will help with the stools.
• They contain a good amount of minerals like potassium, manganese, copper, iron, and magnesium.
• They are rich in B-complex vitamins, vitamin-K, and vitamins A, C and E, which help the body metabolize fats, carbs, and proteins.

PURCHASING AND STORAGE FACTS

• It is highly perishable, and after harvested, they should either be eaten or transported to processing units.
• It is very difficult to get the fresh berry itself, because after harvested only lasts 24hours before spoiling.
• Most commonly found in the form of frozen, juice, or dried
• They are harvested twice a year, so there is not a particular season.

BIG IDEA

• Açaí is one of the most efficient sources of nutrition in the food world.
• Another name given to Acai berries are superfoods.