Inca berry is considered one of the ‘lost’ crops of the Incans. It is native to the Andes, where it has been cultivated since ancient times.
Many traditional Andean foods have an historic association with improved health and longevity. Maca and quinoa are examples of Andean staple crops rich in phytonutrients that became recognised as ‘super foods’ in recent years.
And now Frutarom BU Health, Switzerland, has launched its new superberry ingredient, Incaberrix. The water-soluble extract, rich in phytonutrients, is prepared from the ancient Andean physalis fruit (Physalis peruviana), also known as Inca berry, cape gooseberry or golden berry.
“Now is the time for Inca golden berries,” states Yannick Capelle, Product Manager for Frutarom Health. “The concentrated nutrient value adds health benefits, combined with fun and an exotic touch, to a wide range of food applications. But the sweet and tart berry’s primary category is beverages, including soft drinks, nutritional beverages and more.”
Incaberrix is particularly rich in B-complex vitamins, protein and minerals such as iron, zinc and phosphorus. It also is high in vitamin C and carotenoids. Recent tests in Frutarom Innovation Center show that clear, water-soluble Incaberrix is stable in beverage applications.
“Superberry ingredients such as Incaberrix are attractive ingredients for product developers and manufacturers seeking to add value to their food and beverage products,” notes Capelle. ”The introduction of this new superberry extract by is part of the company’s ongoing strategy to comprehensively serve the functional product market through our group synergies and goals. Incaberrix is another example of how Frutarom combines its strength in developing exotic flavors with healthy ingredients to offer its clients innovative, great-tasting product concepts,” concludes Capelle.
