The Miracle Fruit
 Synsepalum dulcificum is a red, oval berry that is native to Ghana
in west Africa. It has been known about since the 1700s.
Synsepalum dulcificum is not sweet, but is like a bitter cranberry.
Synsepalum dulcificum contains a protein, miraculin, which sticks to
the taste buds and the inside of the mouth. The protein makes sour
things and acids you eat taste sweet. But, it will
make sweet items, such as candy, entirely too sweet to enjoy. The
berry has no known dangerous side effects. The sensation lasts
about 30 minutes.
In the 1970s, the FDA said that the extract from miraculin could not
be sold as a sugar substitute and killed an commercial use of the berry.
The berry has somewhat of a cult following with tasting parties and
cocktails made with them becoming the "new thing."
The berry perishes quickly and each one costs about $2.00 - 3.00.
The berries only last a few days after picking. The berries can
be held for a short period of time by refrigeration or freezing.
Heat destroys the active principle. This means canning,
preserving, baking, and drying are not possible. |
