What are Haskaps?
Haskaps are a bush berry, native to the northern boreal forests of North America, Asia and Europe and were initially introduced to Canada commercially as Blue Honeysuckle or Sweet Berry Honeysuckle and were widely used as an ornamental shrub and the berries were anything but sweet. In the late 1990’s, Dr. Maxine Thompson of Oregon State University, and Dr. Bob Bors of the University of Saskatchewan began breeding and developing Haskap cultivars with improved flavours and harvest traits that have led to the marketable fruit we have today.
Historically, Haskaps have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years by the people of Russia, Japan, Kuril Islands, China and other Asian countries. Haskaps‘ therapeutic benefits were well known by the Japanese Ainu aboriginal people, recognizing the berry as the “elixir of life” It is believed that Haskaps have been used in folk medicine to reduce the risks of hypertension, glaucoma, heart attack, anemia, malaria, osteoporosis and gastrointestinal disease. The infusions prepared from the berries and other plant parts have been used as diuretic remedies, an antiseptic agent and for treatment of throat and eyes. Source: Journal of Functional Foods.
What do Haskaps taste like?
The flavour of Haskap berries has been described as a mix of Raspberry and Blueberry, some say with a trace of Plum. When harvested correctly they are always described as delicious!
Haskaps are good for you!
According to The United States Department of Agriculture, some Haskap varieties have higher Vitamin C than oranges, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries.
Haskap berries are a rich source of antioxidants, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. These antioxidants have been shown to reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.
Haskap berries are also high in vitamin C, which supports a healthy immune system, promotes skin health, and helps with wound healing. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
In addition, Haskap berries contain high levels of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and may lower the risk of stroke and heart disease. They also contain iron, magnesium, and calcium, which are necessary for healthy bones and muscles.
It is believed that due to its abundance of Vitamin C and anthocyanins that Haskaps have the potential for greater health benefits than other commonly consumed berries.
Overall, incorporating Haskap berries into your diet can provide a variety of health benefits and contribute to overall wellness.
