Potential Antiviral Effect of Cranberries Noted

09/11/07 Independent research published in the scientific journal Phytomedicine has found that cranberry may display anti-viral properties. The researchers concluded that cranberry juice offers a non-specific anti-viral effect towards different viruses.  The results of this novel study point to yet another potential health benefit of the North American super berry.

Researchers from various academic institutions in New York  carried out detailed studies on cranberry and other fruit juices using a number of model viruses, such as bacteriophages. The results showed that cranberry juice drink, donated by Ocean Spray, reduced the infectivity of the viruses tested by up to 92 per cent, as compared to a reduction of only 25 – 35 per cent for orange juice and grapefruit juice.

The researchers found that the cranberry juice-treated virus did not attach to its host bacterial cell, whereas the non-treated virus did. The researchers concluded that the anti-viral effect appeared to be related to the adsorption stage of the viruses’ replication cycle. Cranberry juice drink was also found to inhibit the hemagglutination reaction – another indicator that cranberry may display viral anti-adhesion properties.

Arun Hiranandani, senior manager, worldwide marketing for Ocean Spray ITG comments: “These findings are extremely significant in the health story of the cranberry. We are already well aware of the cranberry’s anti-adhesion power against viruses, but this is the first indication we have seen that the berry may possess antiviral power too. This is great news for the cranberry and enhances its appeal as a nutraceutical and healthy food and drink ingredient. We wait with bated breath for the next chapter in the incredible story of this extraordinary berry.”

Meanwhile Ocean Spray ITG’s continued success in the Asian market has led to the launch of a Chinese mooncake with an innovative cranberry filling. Manufactured by ChengDe JinLi Food Co. Ltd, the mooncake filling contains Ocean Spray ITG’s sweetened dried cranberries (SDCs), adding a modern twist to the traditional delicacy. The latest in an impressive portfolio of worldwide cranberry product launches, this is one of the most unusual and intriguing applications to team up with the North American superberry.

Mooncakes, traditionally eaten during the mid-autumn festival, are immersed in Chinese history. Legend has it they were instrumental in overthrowing the Mongol rule of the Yuan dynasty. Secret messages hidden in mooncakes incited rebellion and led to a successful revolt. Today, although perhaps less radical, mooncakes are still causing a stir. The new cranberry filling offers a fresh addition to the traditional lotus seed, increasing the mooncake’s appeal for modern consumers. 

Mr Zhuang, CEO of ChengDe JinLi Food Co. Ltd, China, comments, “Conventional fillings, although still popular, are no longer enough to satisfy consumer demand for choice. Younger generations in particular want variety and exciting flavours to choose from. Cranberry is the perfect ingredient for our filling, as it gives the mooncake an appealing colour and taste, as well as the well-known health benefits of antioxidant and anti-adhesion. The SDCs also add an interesting texture, which consumers love”.

“This is another great success for us”, comments Arun Hiranandani, senior manager, worldwide marketing for Ocean Spray ITG. “Chinese mooncakes have been enjoyed for centuries. The fact that cranberries work well in such a traditional product is testament to the fruit’s versatility. The cranberry mooncake appeals to young and old alike, bringing renewed vitality to the time-honoured tradition and refreshing it for the 21st century.”