With mass-produced and processed foods dwindling in the nutrient stakes, superfoods are having a comeback, and for good reason. These nutrient-packed foods are celebrated for their ability to boost wellness, fight inflammation, and provide a natural energy source, all while tasting inviting, too. But with so many options out there, how do you know which superfood is truly the best? Over the years (and decades!), it feels like everything has been labelled a superfood; the banana was the original superfood after all! But which fruits deserve the moniker?

Enter the superfood showdown, where we pit Haskap berries against the most popular contenders: blueberries, pomegranates, cherries, and oranges. Spoiler alert – they’re all superfoods in their own right, but Haskap berries don’t just hold their own. They outshine the competition as the ultimate nutritional powerhouse. Let’s dive into the details and see why.

What Makes a Superfood?

Superfoods are nutrient-dense, meaning they pack a lot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants into every bite. They’re often linked to specific health benefits, such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, or boosting immunity. While most of them are low in calories (like berries), this isn’t a prerequisite with avocado and oily fish being bona fide superfoods too.

For this showdown, we’ll compare some fruity superfoods based on their antioxidant content, vitamin levels, anti-inflammatory properties, and versatility. Let’s see how they measure up!

Haskap Berries: The Underdog with a Big Punch

Haskap berries may not be as well-known as blueberries or pomegranates, but they’re quickly gaining recognition as one of the most nutrient-dense fruits on the planet. They’re popping up in magazines, restaurants, and research studies more and more, as scientists learn about them.

• Antioxidants: Haskap berries are packed with anthocyanins, the compounds responsible for their deep blue-purple colour. In fact, Haskap berries contain three times more anthocyanins than blueberries, making them one of the richest sources of antioxidants in the world. And these aren’t any antioxidants; they’re C3G anthocyanins, a particularly potent form that can even protect you from the damage caused by microplastics.
• Vitamin C: Haskap berries boast 2-3 times more vitamin C than oranges, giving your immune system a powerful boost.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Haskap berries are excellent for reducing inflammation and supporting heart health thanks to their high levels of polyphenols.
• Unique Taste: With a flavour that mixes blackberries, raspberries, and cherries, Haskap berries are as delicious as they are nutritious. Think tangy, but sweet, in all the right ways!
• Grown Locally: We grow and harvest our Haskap berries right here in Nova Scotia, eliminating the carbon footprint of travel and ensuring none of that goodness is lost before it arrives with you.

Superfood Rating: 10/10 Haskap berries are the ultimate superfood, with unmatched antioxidant and vitamin content.

Blueberries: The Classic Superfood

Blueberries have long been hailed as a superfood staple. They’re rich in antioxidants and fibre, making them an excellent choice for overall health.

• Antioxidants: Blueberries are known for their high levels of anthocyanins, but fall significantly short compared to Haskap berries.
• Fibre: Blueberries are an excellent source of dietary fibre, which supports digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Vitamin K: Blueberries are a great source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and blood clotting.
• Cognitive Benefits: Blueberries have been studied for their ability to improve memory and delay brain aging, but the results are often inconsistent.
• Grown Locally: Like Haskap, blueberries are grown right here in Atlantic Canada, so the eco-conscious can dive right in.
• Drawback: Blueberries can vary dramatically in flavour profile. One pack might be packed with a fruity punch, while another can be… plain. Stronger flavours are associated with higher nutrient profiles, so that blueberries may be a less consistent choice.

Superfood Rating: 8/10 Blueberries are a solid choice, but they can’t compete with Haskap’s superior antioxidant and vitamin content.

Pomegranates: The Heart-Health Hero

Pomegranates are often associated with heart health, thanks to their high levels of polyphenols and unique antioxidants.

• Antioxidants: Pomegranates are rich in punicalagins, a type of antioxidant that’s particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health. However, their overall antioxidant capacity is lower than that of Haskap berries, and Haskap has also shown heart benefits.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Pomegranate juice has been shown to reduce inflammation, but its effects are not as wide-ranging as those of Haskap berries.
• Drawback: Pomegranates are consistent in flavour, but are less versatile than berries. They also aren’t grown locally, making them a less green option.

Superfood Rating: 7/10 Pomegranates are great for heart health, but their limited versatility and lower antioxidant levels hold them back.

Cherries: The Inflammation Fighter

Cherries, particularly tart cherries, are known for their ability to reduce inflammation, making them a popular choice among athletes and those with joint pain.

• Antioxidants: Cherries contain anthocyanins, but their levels are significantly lower than those in Haskap berries.
• Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Cherries effectively reduce muscle soreness but don’t offer the same broad-spectrum anti-inflammatory benefits as Haskap berries.
• Melatonin: Tart cherry extract has been proven to increase melatonin levels safely and naturally, improving sleep quality if dosed at bedtime.

• Drawback: Cherries have a higher sugar content than other superfoods, which may not be ideal for everyone. They also aren’t grown locally, making them a less green option.

Superfood Rating: 7/10 Cherries are good for inflammation and sleep, but their high sugar content and lower antioxidant levels make them less impressive as an overall superfood.

Oranges: The Vitamin C Champion

Oranges are synonymous with vitamin C, but how do they compare to Haskap berries? Prepare to be surprised!

• Vitamin C: Oranges are famous for their vitamin C content, but Haskap berries contain 2-3 times more vitamin C, making them the superior choice for immune support. Yes, they were a fantastic option in the days of lengthy sailing expeditions, but Haskap has them beat!
• Hydration: With their high water content, oranges are great for staying hydrated, but they lack the antioxidant punch of Haskap berries.

• Drawback: Oranges are lower in antioxidants compared to berries and pomegranates. They also aren’t grown locally, making them a less green option.

Superfood Rating: 6/10 Oranges are a good source of vitamin C, but they fall short in other areas, especially antioxidants.

The Verdict: Why Haskap Stands Out

Haskap berries are the clear winner in our superfood showdown, and here’s why:

• Antioxidant Power: With three times more anthocyanins than blueberries, Haskap berries are unmatched in their ability to fight oxidative stress.
• Vitamin C: Haskap berries outshine oranges, providing a powerful boost to your immune system.
• Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: Haskap berries reduce inflammation more effectively than cherries, making them a great choice for recovery and overall wellness.
• Versatility: From smoothies to sauces, Haskap berries and juice can be used in a variety of recipes, making them easy to incorporate into your diet.

How to Add Haskap to Your Daily Routine

Want to add some serious superfood power to your daily routine? Here are some delicious ways to incorporate it into your meals:

• Haskap Watermelon Lemonade: A highly refreshing drink that’s perfect for staying hydrated. Try the recipe here.
• Haskap Vinaigrette: Add a tangy twist to your salads with this antioxidant-rich dressing. Get the recipe here.
• Haskap Berry Crumble: A sweet and satisfying dessert packed with nutrients. Bake it yourself with this recipe.

Final Thoughts

While all superfoods have their unique benefits, Haskap berries stand out as the ultimate fruity superfood. With their superior antioxidant content, high levels of vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory properties, Haskap berries are the perfect addition to anyone’s diet.

Ready to upgrade your superfood game? Try Haskapür today and experience the difference this Canadian superfruit can make.