What is an Acai berry?

2010-01-18T10:54:00.000-08:00

What is an Acai berry?

Acai comes from the Acaizeiro palm tree that is indigenous and thrives in the Amazon basin of Brazil. The berries grow in large bunches at the top of the palm tree and are deep violet in colour and somewhat resemble a large blueberry. Many describe the taste as combining berries with an earthy- chocolaty flavour.

Pulpa Acai 90g

How was acai discovered as a super-fruit?

For centuries the berries have been harvested by locals of the Amazon basin and form the staple food in the diet of many communities, taking the place of rice, bread, and milk. Such is acai's nutritional quality that it is an integral part of the nourishment, and well being of the people of the Amazon basin. Açai's popularity started when some enterprising Brazilians started freezing the fruit (thus preserving all its natural characteristics) and transporting it to Rio de Janeiro. Açai rapidly became the drink of choice for Brazil's surfers, athletes, and the body conscious. By 1992 Açai was firmly part of Rio's beach culture with every bar, gym, and beach stand doing a roaring trade. Today, Açai is drunk throughout Brazil and its consumption is firmly part of Brazilian culture. Açai then gained popularity throughout the US and is now growing in Europe as its taste and amazing nutritional properties become increasingly well known.

How is acai s popularity affecting the Amazon rainforest?

Açai's popularity has started to curb deforestation as its commercial value has increased. It is abundant in primary forest and many landowners have realised that harvesting the naturally growing açai fruit is much more profitable than chopping down the forest and farming the land. Consequently açai production has soared and brought valuable work to many impoverished areas whilst maintaining the natural environment of the rainforest.

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