Goldenberry - Small Yet Nutritious
Goldenberry (Physalis peruviana), is a small, yellow fruit the size of a marble. Although its name suggests a berry, Goldenberry actually belongs to the same botanical family as the tomato, potato and eggplant. As small as this fruit may be, it does not fall short in nutrients due to its high antioxidant content and other vital compounds such as carotenoids and polyphenolic compounds. Adding Goldenberry to a product formulation will certainly enhance its nutritional profile and marketability as a product which supports optimal health.
Read on to learn more about this tiny yet nutrient-dense fruit...
General Information
Goldenberry is native to tropical, high altitude regions of Peru and Chile where it grows wild. From its place of origin, it has reached different regions of the world in the past centuries and acquired regional names like cape gooseberry, pichuberry, poha berry, aguaymanto, physalis and amour en cage, to name a few.
The Goldenberry shrub, which grows up to 5 feet tall, is an annual in temperate regions and a perennial in tropical locations. As the fruit grows and matures, the flower petals fall off and its calyx expands to form a beige papery husk that fully encases the fruit giving it the unique appearance of a Chinese lantern. This inedible protective covering is removed before the fruit is consumed.
Goldenberries are bright yellow to orange when mature, moderately sweet with a mildly tart flavor. They are usually eaten fresh either as a dessert topping or a salad ingredient, or made into jam. The powder can be used in a variety of applications, including functional beverages like smoothies and sports nutrition drinks, functional foods such as baked goods, snacks and bars.
Nutrients and Benefits
Goldenberries are valued for their high concentration of antioxidants, particularly carotenoids and polyphenolic compounds which may provide a variety of health benefits including:
- Boosting immunity
- Helping to promote a healthy immune system
- Improving overall heart health and healthy cells
Aside of carotenoids and polyphenolic compounds, Goldenberries also contain:
- Rare withanolide compounds similar to those found in ginseng which support healthy cell growth.
- Compounds that may help slow down the breakdown and intake of simple sugars that may aid in regulating blood sugar levels.
- Oleic and linoleic acid that help regulate LDL levels and promote healthy cholesterol levels within the normal range.
- Moderate levels of Vitamin C, thiamin and niacin for enhanced immunity
- As a low calorie nutrient dense food, Goldenberry helps promote healthy weight.
Product Specifications/Applications
NP Nutra's Goldenberry Powder (organic) is a partly soluble, orange powder which is certified organic, kosher and food-grade. Produced in a BRC certified facility, it can be used as an ingredient in dietary supplements, functional foods and beverages, sports nutrition and weight management formulations.
Contact us for a free sample and further product information.
