Cranberries

Cranberries

1) What is Cranberries

Cranberries is a small, round, red fruit known for its tart taste. It comes from the evergreen shrub of the genus Vaccinium and is native to North America. Cranberries are commonly used in juices, sauces, dried snacks, and as supplements for their health benefits.

2) How to Select

When selecting cranberries:

Choose berries that are firm, plump, and deep red in color.

Avoid soft, shriveled, or discolored berries.

Fresh cranberries should bounce slightly if dropped, which indicates their ripeness.

Dried cranberries should be moist, flexible, and free from clumping.

3) Benefits

Cranberries offer a range of benefits:

Rich in antioxidants, especially flavonoids and polyphenols.

They support urinary tract health by preventing bacterial infections.

Cranberries are a good source of Vitamin C, E, and dietary fiber.

They help promote heart health, reduce inflammation, and may aid in preventing certain infections.

4) Packaging Sizes Available

Cranberries are available in various forms and sizes:

Dried cranberries: Packaged in resealable packs of sizes 1kg, 500g, 250g.

5) Use

Cranberries can be used in various ways:

Eaten fresh or dried as a snack.

Added to salads, cereals, or baked goods like muffins and bread.

Used to make sauces, chutneys, or relishes.

Processed into juice or used in smoothies.

Used in dietary supplements for their health benefits.

6) Health Benefits Suitable For:

Men: Cranberries help promote prostate and urinary tract health, as well as cardiovascular health.

Women: They are particularly beneficial for preventing and managing urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Kids: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, cranberries support immune health and overall development.

Elderly: Cranberries help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and support heart health, which is essential for aging populations.

7) Taste

Cranberries have a distinctly tart, sour taste. When dried or sweetened, they become slightly sweeter, but the natural tanginess remains a signature characteristic.

8) How to Consume

Fresh cranberries: Rinse thoroughly and consume raw or use in recipes.

Dried cranberries: Eat them as a snack or mix with nuts and seeds.

Cranberry juice: Drink alone or mixed with other juices.

Supplements: Follow recommended dosage instructions provided on the product label.

9) How to Store

Fresh cranberries: Store them in the refrigerator in their original packaging or in a sealed container. They can last up to 4 weeks.

Dried cranberries: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 12 months.

Frozen cranberries: Can be frozen for up to a year. Wash and freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.

10) Product Life

Fresh cranberries: Up to 4 weeks in the fridge, longer if frozen.

Dried cranberries: Typically 6-12 months, depending on packaging and storage conditions.

Cranberry juice: Unopened juice can last several months; after opening, refrigerate and consume within 7-10 days.

Supplements: Follow the expiration date provided on the packaging.

Harvesting Time

Cranberries are typically harvested from mid-September through early November. The timing of the harvest depends on the region and weather conditions.

After Harvest:

Fresh Cranberries: Can be processed for fresh sale, frozen, dried, or made into products like juices and sauces.

Storage & Shipping: Fresh cranberries are immediately cooled and packaged for shipment. Frozen and dried versions are processed and packaged accordingly.