A YEAR IN THE LIFE OF A GOJI BERRY
The lifecycle of a goji berry begins anew each spring as the fields of Ningxia, in the north of China, burst back into life. By June and July, these vibrant bushes are laden with ripe berries ready for harvesting.
Farmers hand-pick each berry with care to preserve delicate skins, nutritional content and ensuring that every single one is at its peak. After the harvest, the berries are first dried in on-site greenhouses before they later undergo a second drying process in local facilities. This gradual drying method ensures they retain their bright red colour, antioxidant-rich content, and unique flavour.
FROM LOCAL FIELDS TO GLOBAL TABLES
Once dried, goji berries are transported to processing plants where they are cleaned and sorted. Advanced techniques like UV light treatment are employed to lower microbiological risks without using chemicals, ensuring they meet international organic standards. An x-ray detector is then used to detect foreign materials and the final quality check involves manual sorting to remove any remaining impurities, ensuring that only the best berries make it into the packaging. Because cross-contamination can happen so easily and the skin of these berries is also the end-product, it really is in one’s best interest to opt for organically grown goji berries.
NUTRITIONAL POWERHOUSE
Goji berries are celebrated not only for their taste but are also attributed with health benefits. Studies published in journals like the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry validate the high antioxidant content of these berries, and they have long since been used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote longevity and vitality. But whether you feel summoned by science or not, this little red berry can liven up lots of dishes both sweet and savoury!
TINY FRUIT, MANY USES
Apart from the dried goji berries that we as DO IT Organic source and love, the fruit is also locally processed as juice, puree, concentrate and in capsules. Not only used as food or drink, it is also incorporated in skincare: it’s a very popular ingredient in China. Closer to home, you can easily incorporate goji berries in your food pattern. Just sprinkle them on your morning cereal, blend them into a smoothie, or mix them into your yogurt for a nutrient-packed snack. Their unique, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor makes them a delightful addition.
FIND OUT MORE
Discover the stories behind our organic ingredients: where they come from, how they grow, and the journey they take to reach their final destinations.
Interested in sourcing organic goji berries for your business? Get in touch with us, and we’ll be happy to share everything about our organic supply chain and product range.
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