Camu Camu

What Is Camu Camu?

Camu camu (Myrciaria dubia) is a small, reddish-purple fruit of a shrub that grows in the wetlands of the Amazon basin. It is known for having one of the highest vitamin C contents of any fruit in the world.

Because its fruit is very tart, it is not very suitable for eating fresh directly; it is therefore mostly dried and turned into powder, or added in small amounts to juices and desserts. Its powder form is used to add a tart vitamin C boost to drinks and mixes.

Nutritional Values of Camu Camu

As a fresh fruit, camu camu provides around 30 kcal of energy per 100 grams, being low in calories; its most distinctive feature is its very high vitamin C content, and it also provides water and plant compounds. Values are approximate, based on a similar profile.

How Should Camu Camu Be Used?

Camu camu, as a tart fruit and vitamin C source, is used in small amounts in drinks and mixes. In powder form it is used as part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; camu camu is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How Is Camu Camu Chosen?

Camu camu is mostly sold as powder; good powder has a natural color, smells clean, and is not clumped. If choosing the fresh fruit, plump, vividly colored and undamaged specimens are preferred.

• Powder should be naturally colored and free of clumps
• Should smell clean, not damp
• Fresh fruit should be plump and undamaged

How Is Camu Camu Stored?

Camu camu powder is stored in a sealed container, in a cool, dry and dark place; moisture and light degrade its quality. Its fresh fruit spoils very quickly, so it is frozen or processed rapidly.

Using Camu Camu in the Kitchen

Camu camu powder is used in small amounts in smoothies, juices, yogurt and dessert mixes; its fresh fruit is used in juice, sorbet and jam. Since it is very tart, it is usually added in small amounts, balanced with sweet ingredients.

How Is Camu Camu Powder Used?

A small amount — less than a teaspoon — of powder is added to a smoothie or drink and stirred in; since it is tart and intense, it is added little by little, tasting as you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is camu camu so tart?

Its high acid and vitamin C content give it a pronounced tartness; this is why it is used more as powder and in drinks, balanced with other ingredients, than eaten fresh.

Is camu camu found fresh?

The fresh fruit is found more in the regions where it grows; worldwide it is mostly sold as dried powder or frozen pulp.

What does camu camu taste like?

It has a very tart and slightly astringent taste; for this reason it is used not on its own but within sweet drinks and mixes.