There are more reasons to eat raspberries every day than you might think!

The usefulness of raspberries and the possibilities of their cultivation technology were discussed on 31.05.2023 at the information day on raspberry cultivation technology at the Polli Horticultural Research Center of the Estonian University of Life Sciences. Kadri Kalmus (Tedre farm) and Peeter Laurson (Estonian University of Life Sciences) gave a presentation on raspberry cultivation and valuation of raspberry seeds.

Raspberries are rich in nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Vitamin C in raspberries supports the immune system and skin and helps to produce collagen. Berries also contain manganese and vitamin K, both of which are important for the strength of our bones. Raspberries also provide smaller amounts of vitamin E, B vitamins, magnesium, copper, iron and potassium. Raspberries are also one of the berries with the lowest sugar content. Despite their sweet taste, raspberries contain little energy. Glucose and fructose are responsible for the raspberry’s sweet taste. The latter is the sweetest natural sugar.

Raspberries are low in calories but high in fiber. Fiber contributes to a feeling of fullness, organizes our digestion, slows down the absorption of carbohydrates and helps remove toxins, waste products, including excess cholesterol, from the body. Fibers are divided into water-soluble and water-insoluble. The body needs both of them in more or less equal amounts. Raspberries are rich in both types of fiber.

When raspberries are processed into juice, a press residue is left behind, which contains berry skins and plenty of raspberry seeds. In cooperation with the Estonian University of Life Sciences, we have investigated possibilities for further processing of raspberry press residue and seeds and their use in various products. Our goal is to find a use for the entire berry harvest so that nothing valuable gets wasted

We extract oil from raspberry seeds, which is rich in vitamins E and A. In addition, the oil is rich in omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids. Raspberry seeds also contain ellagic acid, which has potential anti-cancer effects.

We are conducting trials to develop health products containing raspberry seed powder. Adding raspberry seed powder to yogurt, porridge, smoothies and baked goods increases the fiber content of those foods and also gives a pleasant raspberry taste.

Adding raspberry products to your menu helps reduce the risk of cancer and obesity, regulate metabolism and improve cholesterol and sugar levels. A raspberry a day keeps the doctor away!

The product has been developed within the framework of the Estonian Rural Development Plan 2014-2020 and as a part of a project supported by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD).

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