America's Unknown Superfruit: The Aronia Berry
Aronia berries are native to North America and were used by Native Americans for centuries to treat colds and flu and preserve meats. Today, very few Americans have heard of them, and most of today’s commercial production comes out of Eastern Europe. If you are trying to eat healthier foods, consider aronia berries have more antioxidants than blueberries, elderberries, strawberries, or even açai berries. These berries have the most anthocyanins, quercetins, catechins, phenolic acids, and resveratrol, all molecules with proven health benefits. They’re also high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and low in sugars. Join Dr. DuVal, a retired chemist and local grower of aronia berries, as he discusses the berries, their chemistries, and potential health benefits. Aronia berry food products will be available for sampling.