Since pomegranate juice made an appearance on store shelves, we have been able to savour the taste of pomegranate in popsicles, sherbet and pomegranate tea. Real grenadine syrup is also made from pomegranate juice. And who has not enjoyed a non-alcoholic Shirley Temple drink at one time or another as an aperitif?
Pomegranate used to be called “apple of Grenada” in English, possibly stemming from the French word for the fruit, “pomme-grenade”. As with other red fruits, the pomegranate is rich in polyphenols, naturally present compounds that act as antioxidants. By fighting against free radicals that damage cells, polyphenols help prevent cardiovascular diseases and some cancers, and also slow the signs of aging.
Pomegranate juice contains more polyphenols than red wine, green tea, cranberry juice or blueberries. One 125 ml (1/2 cup) glass of pomegranate juice equals one serving of fruit.