Spotlight on Superfruits

Superfruits

All fruits have health-giving benefits, but "superfruits" are especially known for their high profile of nutrients and phytochemicals.

The word "super" is a label given to fruits that distinguishes them from others based on superior nutritional content. The status of being a superfruit, e.g., containing higher amounts of antioxidants, gives a product an edge in the market place.

The term superfruit was first used in 2004 as a marketing approach to promote both common and rare fruits as ingredients in functional foods, beverages and nutraceuticals. Since that time the concept of superfruit has gained phenomenal popularity. During 2008 to 2012, the number of superfruit global launches increased by 103%, reaching a staggering 22,463 products (TFNet). By the end of 2012, superfruit product sales in the United States had reached an estimated $405.5 million (SPINS) and it is predicted that sales will reach $10 billion by 2017 (Euromonitor data).

Current industry research and development includes superfruit applications in energy drinks, juices, dietary supplements and flavors with nutrient qualities, such as fortified water, snacks, candies, gummies and so on. Many industry experts see the future of superfruit applications in drinks targeted to the younger market who view nutrient-dense, ready-to-drink beverages as healthy and trendy. According to Datamonitor Consumer, superfruits and berries are also leading ingredients in non-traditional products such as candy and snack foods. In addition, by combining superfruits with convenience foods such as chips and popcorn, marketers have yet another opportunity to appeal to the growing millennial base.

Products that promote good health and longevity continue to gain momentum in the marketplace as awareness grows for the connection between antioxidant-rich ingredients and human health.

The antioxidant properties of superfruits come from the polyphenols which give these fruits their exquisite colors. There are currently over 8,000 identified polyphenols found in foods. Clinical studies show that polyphenols have the ability to help suppress free radicals (2013, American Chemical Society).

Superfruits are nutrient dense with excellent levels of fiber, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. These nutritional properties help support the immune system, boost energy and promote health. Fox News recently aired a slideshow presentation “Super fruits for Super Health” which featured the following superfruits as their top 10: Pomegranate, Acai, Avocado, Blueberry, Cranberry, Goji, Kiwi, Mangosteen, Noni, Sea Buckthorn.

Superfruits top 10

Other prominent superfruits include acerola, aronia, bilberry, blackberry, camu camu, dragonfruit, graviola, jabuticaba, lucuma, maqui berry, pumpkin, papaya, raspberry, schisandra berry, strawberry, tart cherry and yumberry.

NP Nutra® offers a large variety of premium superfruit ingredients which are ideal for dietary supplement, functional food and beverage applications as well as cosmeceuticals. For a complete list, please consult our Superfruits page.

References:

http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/81/1/215S.full
http://www.itfnet.org/v1/2014/02/supply-and-demand-trends-in-the-global-superfruit-maarket
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jp3116319
Gross, Paul (9 July 2009). "Comprehensive criteria for superfruit status". Natural Products Insider, Informa Exhibitions LLC. Retrieved 19 November 2014.
Srinivasan S (6 March 2008). "Superfruits - Bespoke for Functionality or Fad?". Frost & Sullivan Market Insight. www.foxnews.com/photoessay/0,4644,6288,00.html