Wild berries and related wild small fruits as traditional healthy foods

Abstract

The consumption of cultivated berry species (e.g., strawberries, blueberries) has increased dramaticallyin the last two decades after consumers appreciated them as flavorful, convenient and healthyfruits. Wild berries and similar small wild fruits are traditionally consumed around the world bylocal people as safe, nutritious, tasty, and versatile foods. These wild fruits have played an importantrole in the nutrition and bio-cultural aspects of rural communities. Like their commercial counterparts,wild berries contain important nutrients and bioactive compounds that may prevent or delay somechronic diseases attributed to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. This review provides acomprehensive appraisal of the chemical and bioactive components in wild berry species and theirtraditional uses as foods around the globe. Presently, wild berries and similar wild small fruits arenovel food sources that inspire applications as culinary products, processed foods, and nutraceuticals.Further research is needed to validate the content and action of bioactive components responsiblefor health claims. Sustainable commercial exploitation of wild berries should consider biocultural,environmental, and socio-economic aspects.