Acai is a typical so-called ‘superfruit’ native to Central and South America, mostly (100.000 tons represents 85% world production) from the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil, somewhat between Manaus and Belem. The harvest of Acai is done twice the year, which may vary per farmer, but is mostly done in the second half of a calendar year. Acai berries are grown on ´Euterpe Oleracea´ palm trees, picked up via the Amazon river and handled with care due to its high perishability. It is similar to the size of a wine grape, besides of its black-purple color and with less pulp. The seed contains about 80% of the fruit, which makes the edible and/or processable part quite limited. Regardless of the size, the benefits and features are fascinating.
Acai is very rich in minerals, like copper, iron, zinc, magnesium and potassium. The fruit is also very rich in vitamins, like A, B6, C and K. Besides of the fact that this fruit contains fibers, proteins and all kinds of acids, it is mostly famous for its extreme amounts of antioxidants (ORAC values). Some of the nutrients directly inhibit DNA. Aside from all health improving benefits resulting from its significances, this fruit gives the human body the very best input to fight the free radicals (harmful molecules that cause damage to human cells) above all.