Do Exotic Fruits Do Justice To The Claims?
There is a raging debate going on about the claims made by the companies about the properties of exotic fruits such as goji berries, pomegranates and acai. These fruits have been given the super fruit status considering their high nutrient and anti-oxidant levels. The more common fruits have not made this category even though they meet the nutritional standards set by Agencies.
These exotic fruits are put into this category without any scientific definition or standards. Many companies are selling these exotic fruits with unverified claims on their health benefits. For example, acai berry is being marketed as a cure for cancer to baldness and weight loss. The companies selling them make a killing by selling these properties without mentioning the actual scientifically verified properties such as anti-inflammatory properties and healthy vitamins. The latter properties can also be found in less "exotic" varieties of berries which are also less expensive.
It is getting difficult to find out whether the claims made by the companies regarding the exotic fruits are true or not. In a recent case the FDA issued a letter to POM wonderful company for making unsubstantiated claims on their pomegranate based drinks. Pomegranate has been proven to have reduced risk factors in heart disease and its undergoing other trials.
So overall the consumers have to be aware when they buy products containing exotic fruits. Take care not to be fooled by the specific claims made by the companies but these fruits do contain the required nutrients and anti-oxidants so do not hesitate in buying them for just that.