Goji berries have become incredibly popular over recent years.
Also known as the Chinese wolfberry, this tasty fruit often receives the “superfood” tag from the media.
However, is this hype deserved, or is it all just marketing?
This article takes a look at the nutrition profile, health benefits, and concerns about goji berries.
What Are Goji Berries?
Goji berries are the fruit of either the Lycium barbarum or Lycium chinense plant, both of which are native to Asia.
The berries have a long history and have played a part in traditional Chinese medicine for over 2000 years
In the modern day, goji berries grow in many different countries, including in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
However, China remains the biggest exporter in the world, exporting more than 7,300 tonnes in 2017
We can eat goji berries in their raw form, made into a tea or wine, or in various recipes.
The main commercial production relates to goji berries in their dried fruit form.
Taste and Appearance
Regarding appearance, goji berries are small and bright red berries in their fresh form.
Dried goji berries are more commercially prevalent, and they look something like red raisins.
Describing the taste of goji berries is a somewhat tricky task since they have a unique flavor.
In their fresh form, the berries have a bitter and astringent taste, with slightly sour notes and very little sweetness.
However, in their (more popular) dried form, goji berries lose a large part of their bitterness.
Dry berries are still slightly bitter, but they develop a sticky-sweet taste and consistency.
Key Point: Goji berries grow around the world, and they have a long history of medicinal use in China. The fruit tastes slightly bitter and sweet in its most popular, dried form.
Nutrition Facts
Surprisingly for a fruit, goji berries are also a source of amino acids, and one ounce provides 4 grams of protein.
The fat content is negligible.
Vitamins and Minerals
goji berries provide a substantial amount of vitamin A in the form of carotenoids.
The fruit also supplies a decent serving of copper, selenium, and vitamin C.
Like most fruit, goji berries are predominantly a source of carbohydrate. Additionally, they offer a small amount of protein and large amounts of vitamin A.
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