When it comes to goji berries, people are most familiar with the red ones. In fact, when we talk about goji berries, we usually refer to the red ones. However, there is also a type of goji berry called black goji berry. So, what are the differences between black goji berries and red goji berries?
1. Appearance
There is an obvious difference between black goji berries and red goji berries, and that is the color. Black goji berries are black in color, while red goji berries have larger grains and a fuller texture.
Black goji berries are smaller and have round, black fruits because they are wild. On the other hand, red goji berries have elongated red fruits.
2. Origin
Black goji berries are mainly found in desert areas in China. They can tolerate saline-alkali soil and drought, and are mainly grown in the Qaidam Basin in Qinghai and Xinjiang in the northwest region of China.
Red goji berries are grown in many parts of China, but goji berries from Ningxia are considered authentic medicinal herbs. The quality of goji berries from Ningxia is better, and the price is also different from regular goji berries.
3. Nutritional Composition
Red goji berries mainly contain polysaccharides, carotenoids, vitamins, amino acids, as well as trace elements such as zinc, iron, and calcium. They are known as the only "complete nutrient food" on Earth.
Black goji berries are rich in anthocyanins, which red goji berries do not have. Anthocyanins are the most effective natural free radical scavengers. Regular consumption can help with beauty, anti-aging, and are therefore called "skin care cosmetics taken orally".