What is Goji Berry?
Wednesday, June 24th, 2009
The Goji Berry is the commercial name for the Wolfberry. This is fruit that is not common to most individuals living in the Western hemisphere, because it is native to China and the surrounding regions. In fact, it estimated that over 72 million pounds of Goji Berry are commercially produced each year in China. These numbers will continue to increase as Goji is now known to companies in the United States who are marketing the berry as a superfruit, with good nutritional value and high levels of antioxidants.
This fruit is usually dried, like a raisin, before it is shipped to the United States.
In China the berry is almost used like a vegetable, being added to soups, as well as chicken and rice dishes. Rarely is the fruit used raw. It is usually cooked before consumption.
Like most fruits being used to promote products, most of the health claims are not backed up, or supported through peer-reviewed research. Nonetheless, the claims are that the polysaccharides within Goji berry have extensive biological effects and health benefits.
The reason that the Goji berry is considered a superfruit is because it contains a significant percentage of macronutrients, as well as a ton of nutrients and phytochemicals. A great resource with the details of the nutritional values of Goji can be found in a book entitled, “Discovery of the Ultimate Superfood” published in 2005.
Last, there have been many marketing claims about Goji Berries that are being cracked down on. There were companies within the United States claiming that Goji fruit would prevent 75% of breast cancer cases. Companies in Europe and Canada have been scrutinized most making health claims about the fruit, as well.
In summary, the Goji berry is a great fruit with much nuturitional value, that compliments the Seven Juice produced by exfuze.
