Peruvian lucuma —a nutrition-packed native fruit from the Andes— is captivating more consumers around the world, mainly in the U.S. market, Bloomberg News highlighted in an article published on its website.
According to the writer, this Peruvian fruit, "esteemed by the Incas for purportedly enhancing fertility, is increasingly available in powered or frozen at American health-food stores."
"Lucuma is high in beta-carotene, iron, zinc, calcium, protein, and fiber. It also contains antioxidants and potassium, which are said to be good for your heart, immune system, and skin," she pointed out.
It must be noted the delicious flavor and crumbly texture of said natural product has already conquered diverse American juice bars and sweet shops.
According to Peru's Exports and Tourism Promotion Board (PromPeru), lucuma —which is consumed since pre-Inca times— is also excellent to combat depression and diabetes. Plus, it is an antioxidant and increases hemoglobin level in the blood.
The article also highlighted the increase of Peruvian restaurants in U.S. cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Washington —as well as in London (UK) and Dubai (UAE)— has contributed to the fruit's presence in the international market.
Exports
Peruvian lucuma exports totaled US$4.6 million in 2017, up by 23.2% from the previous year.
In this sense, the
United States ranked as the top export destination, followed by Australia and Canada.
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