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Miracle Fruit Nutrition

Miracle fruit got its name from its natural ability to make all foods taste sweet. While small in size (less than 1 inch) this red berry is quite powerful. A sweet sensation will last in the mouth anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours with no adverse side effects. This fruit also has many nutritional and health supporting functions.

  1. History

    • The miracle fruit plant (Synsepalum dulcificum) was discovered by French Explorer Reynaud Des Marchais in 1725 in South Africa. Since then there have been many attempts to make this fruit a sugar substitute. In the 1970s, the FDA banned the fruit from being used as a substitute, perhaps due to pressure from the powerful sugar industry. Miracle fruit can now be purchased in tablets or freeze-dried form at select locations.

    Active Ingredient

    • A glycoprotein called miraculin is what causes the taste buds to send signals to the brain that the food is sweet tasting, regardless of the actual flavor. Glycoprotein has 191 amino acids and a few carbohydrate chains. The combination of this protein with acidic food is what causes this tasty reaction.

    Taste

    • The most pleasant taste reaction comes from foods that are inherently sour. For example, vinegar tends to taste like apple juice, and limes taste candied. Foods that are already sweet may be sickeningly so, and are not recommended. Alone, the miracle berry tastes like a cranberry.

    Medical Applications

    • The miracle berry can be used to reduce caloric intake. Those with an affinity for sugary substances will be able to reduce sugar consumption, increase their intake of fruits and vegetables, and ultimately decrease daily calories. For diabetics, the miracle berry is a safe way to sweeten any sugar-free dish. This berry can also be used with cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, restoring the flavor of food for those who experience a metallic taste due to treatment.

    Warning

    • When consuming miracle fruit, do not eat the pit. Rapidly swallowing the berry will not allow for the full effect--it needs a few minutes to activate the taste buds. Always consume within 15 minutes of thawing, or the fruit will begin to oxidize and turn brown. The miracle fruit does not leave a favorable impression on its own; it should be eaten with other foods.

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