Grapes - Exploring The Incredible World of Grapes - From Fresh Delight Into Nutrient Rich Superfood

Grapes
Exploring the Incredible World of Grapes
From Fresh Delights to Nutrient-Rich Superfruits
Hey there, grape enthusiasts!
Today, we're diving into the world of grapes, also known as nature's juicy berries.
Grapes are not just a tasty snack; they can also be turned into wine, juice, and delicious jelly or jam.
Did you know grapes come in a rainbow of colors?
From red and purple to white and green, there's a grape for everyone.
Thanks to modern technology, we can now enjoy seedless grapes, making snacking even more convenient.
Now, let's talk about raisins - those sweet, dried gems that come from grapes, and yes, their name is French for 'grape.'
In recent years, red grapes have gained 'superfruit' status for their incredible nutrient content and antioxidant powers.
Believe it or not, grapevine leaves are edible and used to make the famous dish, dolmades. Yum!
So, whether you're munching on grapes, sipping wine, or enjoying dolmades, grapes play a fascinating role in our culinary world!
Let's delving deeper into the fascinating world of grapes and wine.
You won't believe the numbers we've got for you.
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, a whopping 76,000 square kilometers of our planet are dedicated to growing these incredible fruits.
What's even more intriguing is that 71% of those grapes are destined for the world of wine, turning into the delightful drink we all love.
But hold on, that's not all! About 27% of grapes are enjoyed as fresh fruit, while 2% become those scrumptious dried raisins.
Ever wonder what makes 'no added sugar' and '100% natural' fruit canned goods so sweet?
Well, it's often grape juice that does the trick!
And guess what?
The vineyards are on the rise, expanding by about 2% each year, to satisfy our growing appetite for all things grape.
Have you ever wondered why the French, despite enjoying rich diets, have relatively low rates of heart disease?
The answer might just be in their wine glasses.
Believe it or not, grapes, especially red ones, have special properties that can help lower cholesterol levels and keep our arteries free from blockages.
So, while we're not suggesting you become a wine connoisseur, savoring three or four glasses of red wine a week might just be a heart-healthy choice worth considering!
Let's see fascinating world of white grapes and how they've evolved from their green counterparts.
Two tiny genes are responsible for turning off the color green in grapes and giving us those beautiful white grape varieties.
But what about raisins and currants?
Let's unravel the delicious mysteries.
Did you know that any dried grape can be called a raisin?
That's right, it's all about that drying process.
And what's a currant, you ask?
Well, it's simply a dried Zante grape, with a name inspired by French origins.
Now, let's talk sultanas.
Originally from Turkey, they were once a specific type of raisin, but today, they're made from North American grapes.
Fun fact: in French, 'raisin' means fresh fruit, while 'grappe' (where 'grape' comes from) means a bunch, like a bunch of grapes.
And speaking of currants, did you know there are blackcurrants and redcurrants, completely unrelated to grapes but equally delicious?
So, whether you're enjoying white grapes or diving into the world of dried fruits, there's a whole grape story waiting for you.
Join us on this grape adventure, and you'll never look at these tiny fruits the same way again!