Acai Berry

The **Açaí berry** is a small, dark, round fruit that has gained global popularity as a "superfood." * **Appearance:** They are tiny, roughly 1 inch (2.5 cm) in circumference, and resemble grapes or blueberries. The skin is a deep, purplish-black color. * **Source:** Açaí berries grow in clusters high up on the **açaí palm tree** (*Euterpe oleracea*), which is native to the Amazon rainforest in South America. * **Edibility:** The pulp and skin only make up about 10-15% of the fruit, as the rest is a large, hard seed. Because of this, they are typically mashed into a paste or pulp rather than eaten whole. * **Flavor Profile:** Unlike many sweet berries, Açaí has a unique flavor often described as a mix between **unsweetened chocolate and wild berries**, with earthy or metallic notes. * **Nutritional Value:** They are known for being rich in **antioxidants** (which give them their deep purple color), fiber, and healthy fats, making them a common ingredient in smoothies and Açaí bowls.