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AMERICAN VS EUROPEAN

When comparing elderberry, it's important to note that "American" and "European" aren't just geographical distinctions; they actually identify two different elderberry species: Sambucus canadensis (American) and Sambucus nigra (European).

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Estimates suggest that more than 95% of elderberry plant products sold in North America today contain imported, European elderberry (nigra). These berries are often thermally dried, ground up, and combined with water or glycerin to create a syrup.

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But now there's a better option, and it starts with American elderberry. No nutrient-diminishing heat processes and absolutely no added water; just pure, fresh-pressed elderberry.

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These fundamental differences in product composition aren't the only reason to choose American elderberry. Scientific research is making a case for it as well...

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CYANOGENIC GLYCOSIDE ANALYSIS IN AMERICAN ELDERBERRY

This study, published in March 2021, demonstrated that American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis) does not possess certain toxins found in the European berry (Sambucus nigra). Consequently, American berries do not need to be boiled during processing, as is the case with European berries; therefore, even more of their nutritional integrity is maintained.

ANTHOCYANINS AND OTHER POLYPHENOLICS IN AMERICAN ELDERBERRY AND EUROPEAN ELDERBERRY CULTIVARS

This study, posted on USDA.gov, identified certain anthocyanins in American elderberry that weren’t detectable in the European berries. The anthocyanins unique to the American elderberry were acylated. This is significant because acylated anthocyanins are stable during the manufacturing process, meaning they don’t break down easily when heated or stored. 

CHOOSE RIDGE ROAD FARMS

and choose American berries grown by American farmers in America's heartland!

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