Swedish Superberries
Exotic superfoods, such as maca, goji, açaí, and lúcuma are bought by the bucketful by health-conscious consumers in the West. They’ve been transported across half the earth and cost a fortune – but there are much cheaper and more environmentally friendly options available. Why not make the most of what our own local, Nordic nature has to offer?
Berries are not only beautiful and delicious, they also contain a number of antioxidants, which help take care of excess free radicals that cause damage to the body.
“Superberries” is the word we use to describe berries that have a particularly high concentration of nutrients. Filibaba has taken a closer look at a few of them.
Blueberries
According to the Swedish National Food Agency, blueberries are the second most consumed type of berries in Sweden. They grow wild all over the country. Anthocyanin doesn’t only give the blueberries their blue color – it is also a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system, lowers cholesterol and reduces the risk of cancer.
The berries also contain fibers, as well as vitamins C, K, and, B6. Eating blueberries will also get you a good dose of beta-carotene, which has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is a source of provitamin A. Blueberries are ripe to be harvested in July and August.
Rosehip Berries
This thorny health bomb is not only great if you suffer from joint pain – with its high vitamin content (270 milligrams of vitamin C per 100 grams) this berry will also strengthen your immune system.
A study made at Lund University (2012) has shown that rosehips can lower both blood sugar levels and cholesterol. Rosehips are part of the rose family, and grow mostly along the coasts in the southern parts of the country. When the berries shine bright red like tiny Christmas baubles, their flavor is at its strongest. They are usually ready to be harvested in September. Rosehips also contain minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium.
Sea Buckthorn
Sea buckthorn grows wild, most commonly along the Baltic coast, but also on the west coast. The range and availability of buckthorn products on the Swedish market has increased a great deal in the last few years thanks to the high levels of antioxidants in the berries. According to a study by the National Food Agency (2011), a single serving of sea buckthorn contains more than the recommended daily dose of vitamins C for adults (131 milligrams per 100 grams). The study also showed high levels of vitamin K and carotenoids, which are organic pigments and nutrients.
Blackcurrants
Norrbotten, the northernmost county in Sweden, stands for about 40 percent of the blackcurrant harvest in the country. An analysis by the National Food Agency (2011) shows that blackcurrants contain much higher levels of vitamin C than many other Swedish berries. 100 grams of blackcurrants gives 150 milligrams of vitamin C. These juicy berries also contain anthocyanin. Blackcurrants can be made into juice, jelly, or preserves, and the leaves can be boiled to make tea. Blackcurrants also lower blood sugar levels and are good for the stomach. Blackcurrant juice was traditionally used to alleviate cold symptoms.
Text: Emelie Kalén | Photos: Jenny Sundén | Translation: Olivia Olsen