The rise of the superberries

THERE’S a reason strawberries account for more than half of berries sold – they’re packed with nutrients and are delicious.

In recent years though, a whole host of superberries have become widely available. But what are the brilliant berries – and which are better off left in the punnet?

1 GOJI BERRIES Supermodels love them, with Victoria’s Secret model and nutritionist Miranda Kerr listing them as her sweet fix of choice. Naturally rich in a yellow antioxidant which has been linked to protecting eyesight. However, recent research found they were no more nutrientpacked than strawberries, which are cheaper and tastier.

2 ACAI BERRIES All it took was for Victoria Beckham to tweet that she was obsessed by acai berries for hopeful dieters everywhere to start buying into the internet chat that these dark, grape-like berries were packed with nutrients and had “fat-burning” qualities. They are rich in amino acids, vitamins A,B, C and E and minerals including potassium and calcium. As for those fat-burning claims? Some dieticians believe it is simply great marketing.

3 ARONIA BERRIES Known as chokeberries in America – because they make your mouth pucker if you eat them raw – they contain more antioxidants than acai, goji and blueberries. They can be too sharp to eat raw, but are can be added into soups, sauces, jams and even wine. There are growers in Scotland.

4 MULBERRIES Rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, plus vitamins and minerals. Benefits of eating regularly include maintaining a healthy circulation, increasing vitality and energy as well as fighting signs of ageing.

5 FUCHSIA BERRIES Said to taste like a cross between a kiwi and a fig. And yes, they are from the humble fuchsia bush, so many of which are in our gardens. However, depending on which variety of fuchsia you have they might be bitter and unpleasant. Now, though, British horticulturalists have bred a strain of fuchsia that has sweet, vitamin-rich berries.

6 CRANBERRIES Said to reduce the risk of “bad” cholesterol furring up your arteries. They’re also good for skin health. Often said to be good at preventing urinary tract infections in women, it may help although research is conflicting.