The açai berry sold in the United States comes from two species of palm tree, Euterpe oleracea and Euterpe precatoria These tropical trees are native to the Amazon River basin in Brazil. Edible hearts of palm come from the same trees. Açai berries are manually harvested from natural mature stands at the peak of ripeness.
Characteristics
Açai berries are spherically shaped and similar in size to a large blueberry. They are commonly harvested from July to December. You can buy dried açai berries made into earrings, bracelets and necklaces in parts of Brazil, including San Salvador de Bahia. When the açai berries first come out, they are green, then mature into their deep purplish-red color. The bulk of the açai berry is its large singular seed. The part of the açai berry you eat is just a thin fibrous cover atop a thin edible layer of flesh.
Pulp
You are highly unlikely to find fresh açai berries in any U.S. grocery store or any area outside of the Amazon River Basin because açai berries are very perishable. Instead, you will find frozen açai berry pulp or products such as juices and sorbets at markets around the world. Look for its characteristic deep purplish-red color. Açai pulp is bitter tasting and begs for some sort of sweetener. Add the pulp to fruit smoothies or blend it with juice.
Brazilian Staple
The açai berry is native to Brazil and enjoys a national popularity. Frozen açai pulp is available at national chain supermarkets and local corner stores. It is common to see açai among a menu of the fresh tropical juices so popular in Brazil.
Leukemia
The University of Florida conducted a study in 2006 that showed the antioxidants contained in the açai berry destroyed cultured human cancer cells. The study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, says, "Extracts from açai (ah-SAH'-ee) berries triggered a self-destruct response in up to 86 percent of leukemia cells tested."
Free Trial Scams
Use caution when experimenting with online offers of acai berry supplements that tempt you with a free trial. Connecticut's attorney general launched an investigation into the business practices and health claims of companies marketing açai berry free trials. The products often claim to help you lose weight, detoxify your body and increase your energy. However, no scientific evidence has yet to back these specific claims. Additionally, these companies are improperly charging consumers' credit cards.
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