The Super Cranberry

Cranberries are overwhelmingly popular. Americans consume approximately 400 million pounds of them annually. Chocked full of antioxidants, the fruit’s popularity should result from its health benefits, but it is likely the taste that makes the berry so well-liked. Perhaps both are reasons why this food is deemed super.

The cranberry is considered extremely high in nutrient and antioxidant content. It is thought to aid in the fight against cancer, urinary tract infections, and a long list of other health issues. Losing some of its health benefits when dried, it is better eaten fresh. However, most people need to be made aware of this fact. Surprisingly, only 20% of the hundreds of thousands of tons of cranberries produced in the USA annually are eaten fresh. The remainder are used in juices and as a dried product.  

Cranberry juices and dried berries tend to have a high sugar content, so we should be careful to read labels before purchasing the processed varieties. There appear to be very few risks for cranberry eaters, with only one crucial health warning: if you take Warfarin, stay away from cranberries due to a high vitamin K content that may cause bleeding. As always, check with your doctor if you are taking medications, pregnant, or nursing.  

One of the most easily cooked dishes, fresh cranberry sauce is commonly added to holiday tables and used as a fresh addition to the turkey sandwich. Sometimes sour, sometimes sweet, it also has its place in salads, desserts, and citrusy beverages. Sweet and savory mixed-in additions like oranges, raisins, peppers, and onions serve as bright flavor enhancers.  

Take some time this year to cook a few of these magnificent berries for your holiday table. You’ll quickly find out why the cranberry is so super!

Have an excellent rest of the Autumn season!

This article first appeared in the Traveler Weekly Newspaper October, 2023