SUPERFOODS
More and more consumers view “food as medicine,” consuming certain foods to prevent health problems such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Not surprisingly, plant-based foods that are generally perceived as health-promoting are often at the top of superfoods lists.
The global superfoods segment was reported to be worth more than $220million in 2020 and is expected to continue growing at an annual rate of 14 – 15%.
Benefits of Superfoods:
- Fight against diet-related diseases
- A natural product – not a pill or capsule
- Promote physical and mental well-being
- Enhances immunity
Foods with an addition of superfoods products are targeted in particular at the customer who:
- Follows trends
- Is open to new tastes and experiences
- Appreciates the combination of tradition and modernity
- Is aware of the advantages of natural ingredients
Although the term “superfoods” is quite new, products belonging to this group have been with us for centuries.
Establishing one, coherent list of “superfoods” seems to be almost impossible. That is why we present properties of superfoods found in almost every kitchen. These readily available products contain extremely high concentrations of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
| CINNAMON | Its aroma helps stimulate brain function. It is added to drinks, wine and cider and finely blends with fruit. It is used with stewed meats and vegetables. |
| SPIRULINA | Was a key element of astronauts’ diet in space. The iron content in spirulina is much higher than in spinach and is comparable to red meat. |
| BLACK PEPPER | Known as “black gold”, contains antibacterial compounds that help keep food fresh and also supports absorption of other nutrients. |
| TUMERIC | To take full advantage of its properties, eat it with a little fat and black pepper. Studies show that it can be effective in treating and preventing chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes. |
| BLACK CUMIN SEEDS | Found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. These seeds contain over a hundred of different chemical compounds, including rich sources of all essential fatty acids. They stimulate the immune system, helping to alleviate autoimmune diseases. |
| HEMP SEEDS | Rich in vitamin E, protein and a wide variety of minerals, as well as omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids. It is worth noting that hemp seeds do not contain THC – the primary ingredient in marijuana, which can cause euphoria and anxiety. |
| GINGER | Was a very expensive spice in ancient Rome; one pound of ginger was equivalent to the price of an whole sheep. |
| PIMENTO | Called the “allspice”, which explains the complexity of its flavor. Both its fruits, seeds and bark are used, and meats are cured in the smoke of burnt wood. |
| CAYENNE, CHILLI, HARISSA | Popular in exotic cuisines, for desserts and chocolates. |
| MUSTARD SEEDS | Adds crunch to marinated vegetables, preserves food thanks to its antiseptic properties. |
| CUMIN | Is an ingredient of sophisticated blends, used in Middle Eastern cuisine. |
| CURRY | A spice containing coriander, cumin, fenugreek, mustard seeds, cayenne pepper, black pepper and turmeric or a richer version with ginger, cardamom, cloves. Added in the right proportions and heated, releases aroma that harmoniously complements the flavors: salty, sweet, bitter, sour and spicy. |
| LOVAGE | Every piece of the plant can be used in cooking and preserves; an ingredient of Moldavian cuisine, it goes weel with lamb, stews, one-pot dishes and sauces. |
The above products are only a small percentage of the entire list of superfoods. Most of the healthy and valuable products can be qualified to this group.
It is important to be aware of their properties, add them to a well-balanced diet and create new flavors while adding them to our dishes. Only then will we feel the power of “superfoods”.
