Lucuma

Lucuma is the fruit of Pouteria lucuma, an evergreen tree which grows in the Andean region of South America. The fruit has a dry, yellow flesh which is prized in its native territory for its flavour. This is described as a combination of caramel, maple syrup, sweet potato and vanilla ice cream. In fact, Lucuma is most used in Peru as a highly popular flavouring for ice cream – to which the pulped flesh is added.

However, Lucuma is also a significant source of nutrition. It is rich in dietary fibre and carbohydrates, plus a range of vitamins and minerals. Its signature component is beta carotene.

Lucuma can bring much to your diet. It is both a useful dietary supplement and a uniquely flavoursome element. The taste is not lost during processing, so Lucuma as a powder becomes a fascinating addition to milder carrier elements in desserts, drinks and smoothies.

Health benefits of Lucuma

Lucuma’s high beta carotene content is evidenced by the yellow-orange colour of the fruit flesh. It also makes it a significant source of vitamin A – essential to maintain good skin and bone health and strong immune function, and required for healthy vision. Vitamin A is a strong antioxidant, preventing cellular damage at a molecular level. It also fosters correct foetal development during pregnancy.

Another significant component of Lucuma is a spectrum of B vitamins, especially B3 (Niacin). A good supply of vitamin B3 is important to maintain good function and health of almost all our body systems. B3 is one of the essential vitamins – those we require for good health but do not synthesise ourselves and need to source from our food. Lucuma has anti-inflammatory effects. Local custom in its native area has been researched by scientists, to show that wound healing and tissue regeneration are supported by Lucuma consumption. As well as eating the fruit, local people apply an extract of it topically, to speed the healing of skin cuts and abrasions.

Lucuma’s mineral content includes: potassium (important for neural function and mental health); sodium (which promotes blood pressure regulation, plus good muscle and neural function); the musculoskeletal building agent calcium; phosphorous (needed for musculoskeletal health, proper digestion and hormone balance). Lucuma is also a useful source of easily-digestible protein and dietary fibre.

Rainforest Foods Lucuma is organically grown in Peru. It is processed locally to preserve optimum nutrition.