Acerola (West indian cherry) Nutrition facts and Health benefits

Selection and storage

Acerola cherry grew primarily in home gardens as a decorative shrub and in some selected orchards in Florida and Hawaii in the US. Only a handful of farmer markets display them for sale. Acerola extractions in the form of powder, concentrate, juices, etc., however, can be readily available in groceries.

In their wild native, for example in Brazil’s Amazon, acerola cherries can be readily available in the local markets. Choose bright-red, ripe, firm, and uniform-sized berries. Avoid discolored, soft, bruising, and damaged ones.

Once at home, store fresh berries in a plastic or zip pouch and place them inside the refrigerator set at zero degrees and high relative humidity where they keep well for a couple of days.

Preparation and serving tips

Fresh berries can be eaten out of hand from the trees just as you would do in the case of other bush berries. However, their extremely tart flavor and proportionately large-sized seeds would limit their use as a favorite table fruit.

Once at home, wash berries in cold water without disturbing their stem. Drain, and gently mop dry using a soft cloth/paper towel.

Here are some serving tips:

• Traditionally, acerola berries have been part of the food culture of native Amazonians for centuries.

• Sliced fresh berries can be added to fruit salad, fruit cup, etc.

• They can be used to prepare sauce, juice, syrup, jelly, etc.

Safety profile

Acerola berries may rarely result in severe allergic reactions in some sensitized individuals. Most often, these kinds of reactions occur because of possible sensitization to latex from other products of the acerola tree. Persons with a history of suspected allergy to these fruits may want to avoid eating them. (Medical disclaimer).

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1. Phenolic compounds in Malpighia- Instituto de Química-Brazil (Link opens new window).

2. USDA National Nutrient Database.(Link opens in new window)