Used in ancient times, as well documented in art and literature through the ages, pomegranate is one of the first cultivated fruits known to man. The pomegranate has been cultivated in Iran, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and the Mediterranean region for several millennia. The pomegranate fruit is native to the Middle East, but is now grown in many areas around the world.

The fruit holds hundreds of seeds in a juicy red pulp and contains a variety of phytonutrients that act as antioxidants. Punicalagins, notably Ellagic acid and it's derivatives, are believed to be the main active compounds responsible for the antioxidant ingredient contributions. Antioxidants are natural substances in plants and foods that protect cells from harmful oxygen molecules called free radicals. Antioxidants stop free radicals from attacking LDL, or "bad" cholesterol, and combining with cells to form plaque that hardens arteries. The ORAC (antioxidant capacity) of pomegranate juice has been reported to be among the highest of all fruit varieties.

Processed pomegranate aril juice provides about 16% of an adult's daily vitamin C requirement per 100 ml serving, and is a good source of vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) and potassium.

Pomegranate fruit ingredients are now used for everything from dish soap to liqueur. Some people even take processed pomegranate supplements in order to get more vitamins, minerals and antioxidants , as pomegranates have this in higher concentrations than most other foods within it's size range or fruit family. Consumption of pomegranate juice has been on the rise thanks to media coverage of the anti-oxidant rich fruit that has commonly been linked to improved heart health, as well as claims that pomegranate could protect against prostate cancer and slow cartilage loss in arthritis.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Antioxidants ( example- Punicalagins; Ellagic acid and derivatives)
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin B
• Potassium

Contact Encore Fruit Marketing today for product samples and information at sales@encorefruit.com