Miracle Berries

Seasons/Availability

Miracle berries are available year round.

Current Facts

Miracle berries are botanically classified as Sysepalum ducificum and are a member of the Sapotaceae family. Other names for these berries include Magic berry, Miraculous berry or Flavor berry. During the 1970s producers tried to commercialize these berries, however it was not successful due to a last minute political lobbying.

Description/Taste

Miracle berries are tasteless, but they have a sweet effect on sour foods. Limes, lemons, and even vinegar, taste sweet if they are eaten after a Miracle berry. This sensation occurs, because an active glycoprotein molecule called, miraculin, attaches to the taste buds and alters the sweet receptors on the tongue and changes sour flavors to sweet flavors. This flavor alteration can last from five to thirty minutes.

Applications

Mostly a novelty item, Miracle berries have been purchased in order to host tasting parties during which participants eat a berry, and then taste a variety of tart and astringent foods in order to experience the sweet affect first hand.

Geography/History

The Miracle berry is native to West Africa. According to food historians, native tribes ate these berries before meals. When grown in its original location, these plants grow in bushes that can reach up to twenty feet in height. However, cultivated plants typically do not reach more than ten feet.

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