Currants

Our natural red food color is derived from 100% concentrated Black & Red Currents. This small Berry Packs Awesome Health Benefits. Black currants, a forgotten fruit in most American diets, but highly popular in Europe, may be just what the doctor ordered.  

     Health Benefits:
       This dark-colored fruit is jam packed with antioxidants, which have been shown to have significant health benefits. Studies show that antioxidants can prevent various types of degenerative diseases, such as heart disease and cancer, as well as slow down the aging process and protect the body's vision and neurological functions.

        Until now, blueberries have long been regarded as the "king of antioxidants." Research has shown that the black currant has a much higher source of antioxidants than the blueberry and has three times the amount of Vitamin C found in oranges. Black currants also contain significant amounts of vitamin B6, vitamin E, potassium, copper and soluble fiber. They are rich in photo chemicals called anthocyanins which are known for their outstanding anti-inflammatory benefits. Anthocyanins are the plant pigments that give black currants their dark color - the darker the fruit, the higher the amount of anthocyanins the more antioxidant benefits available.

     History:
       Currants have enjoyed great popularity in the past, particularly in Europe, where in the 1800s as many as 722 varieties were in existence. Most of the European varieties were large fruited and sweet as a result of centuries of selection and breeding, while American types had less desirable flavor and more disease resistance. Although they seldom are eaten fresh due to their tart flavor, both red and white currants make excellent jams and jellies.