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Camu Camu, the super fruit of the Peruvian Amazon.

Camu Camu, rich in vitamin C and high in antioxidants

by Steven Nyland, OrganicCrops. Posted on 21 September 2022, 16:12 hrs

Camu Camu - the superfood from the heart of the Amazon rainforests in Peru. This amazing fruit bush/tree is a natural wonder that packs a powerful punch. Thanks to its incredibly high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, Camu Camu is a functional food that is gaining popularity around the world. As an exporter from Peru, OrganicCrops is proud to bring this incredible superfood to your doorstep. 

Camu camu fruit transported by traditional small motor boatCamu Camu is a fascinating fruit that thrives in the Peruvian jungle. With its distinct red or green color and tangy flavor, this amazing fruit grows naturally on the banks of rivers in the Amazon flood plains. Bursting with vitamin C and potent bioactive compounds that may help prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer, Camu Camu is a true superfood.

The fruit is grown by both small farming families and corporations, and can be found growing wild alongside the flood plains. Each Camu Camu bush has the potential to produce over 2000 fruit, and typically starts to bear fruit after four years of growth.

The harvest season runs from February to July and September to December. After the fruit is harvested, it is transported by small motor boats to a riverport and then to processing plants where it is transformed into pulp and powder.

Health Benefits

The health benefits of Camu Camu are truly remarkable. Packed with essential amino acids like serine, valine, and leucine, this fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients. Its impressive array of vitamins and minerals includes calcium, potassium, sodium, magnesium, copper, and zinc. According to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, Camu Camu is also a rich source of flavonoids, which have been linked to a range of health benefits, including reducing inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases.

What really sets Camu Camu apart, however, is its incredibly high vitamin C content. In fact, this superfood contains 40 times more vitamin C than lemons per 100g of product. This potent antioxidant helps boost the immune system and may protect against a range of illnesses. As noted in a study published in the Journal of Functional Foods, vitamin C plays a critical role in immune function and can help prevent infections.

In addition to its vitamin C content, Camu Camu is also a rich source of betulinic acid, which has been linked to the prevention of immune system-related diseases. According to a study published in Food Chemistry, this compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it a valuable addition to any diet.

With so many amazing health benefits, it's easy to see why Camu Camu is quickly becoming one of the world's most sought-after superfoods.

2022 Harvest

As we look ahead to the 2022 harvest, it's clear that Camu Camu is poised for another successful year. Thanks to the increased demand for healthy foods during the ongoing pandemic, the production of Camu Camu has been steadily increasing in recent years. This increased production has not only made Camu Camu more widely available, but it has also helped to drive down prices, making this superfood even more accessible to consumers around the world. As a result, the 2022 harvest is expected to be plentiful and of excellent quality, providing a reliable source of this amazing superfood for health-conscious individuals everywhere.

Typical uses of Camu Camu powder

Camu Camu powder is a versatile and convenient superfood that can be used in a variety of ways. With its high concentration of natural vitamin C, it's an excellent addition to any fruit drink, smoothie, or dessert recipe. It can also be used as a natural flavoring for ice cream, yogurt, and baked goods, adding a tangy, tropical twist to your favorite treats.

In Latin America, camu camu is a popular ingredient for "refrescos," a refreshing fruit drink made from camu camu powder, water, and ice. This delicious and healthy drink is enjoyed by people of all ages and is a great way to stay hydrated while enjoying the many health benefits of Camu Camu.

At OrganicCrops, we offer high-quality camu camu powder packed in boxes of 20kg. If you're a business looking to source this amazing superfood we're here to help. Contact our sales department today for a detailed quotation or further product information.

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About OrganicCrops

OrganicCrops is an agricultural trading company from Tarapoto, Peru that specializes in cultivation, marketing and exporting organic products such as Quinoa, Maca and Cacao.