Acerola: A Little Fruit That Packs a Big Punch

Acerola, a small cherry-like fruit with a sweet and tart taste, has become a beloved flavor in the southern prefecture of Okinawa, Japan. Although it goes by many other names such as Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, and wild crepe myrtle, the fruit is known as acerola in Okinawa and can be found not only in a variety of foods but also in skincare products. 

Although acerola is native to Central and South America, it thrives in subtropical climates around the world. In fact, it is grown in areas of the United States including Texas as well as in parts of Asia. In Okinawa, it is primarily grown in the northern region of the island where the warm heat, dry soil, and strong sun exposure allow it to flourish without the help of a greenhouse. 

Acerola is said to have first made its way to Okinawa in the late 1950s after being brought back by locals returning home from Hawaii. However, production did not truly take off until the early 1980s. Initially, distribution was limited to the immediate areas surrounding the farm, as the crop was delicate and hard to ship without incurring damage. The fresh-picked fruit also had a short shelf life, only lasting two to three days without refrigeration. As a result, today’s acerola market features products that have been creatively manufactured to prolong shelf life and preserve the fruit’s bright color and flavor. 

One of the most popular products is refreshing and eye-catching acerola juice, which lends a pop of ruby red color to vending machines and convenience store fridges across Okinawa. Other best-sellers include syrup, jam, vinegar, salad dressing, flavored honey, and tea. Okinawan acerola, which is said to be sweeter than its Brazilian counterpart, is also a popular flavor for sweets including hard candies and gummies. In some cafes on the island, you can also find delightful treats such as smoothies, jelly drinks, sorbets, and even alcoholic beverages.

Not only is it delicious, but acerola is also a powerhouse of health benefits. Acerola producers note that the fruit is full of vitamin C, with some claiming that it has 1,700mg per one hundred grams – a staggering 30 times the amount found in lemons. It is also said that this tasty fruit is high in polyphenols, a type of antioxidant that can be found in blueberries and grapes. 

Given these properties, some believe acerola offers dermatological benefits and helps prevent signs of aging. As a result, it has become a popular ingredient in Japanese beauty and skincare products as well. Today, there is a plethora of acerola lotions, serums, face washes, and balms available for purchase. You can even find Japan’s popular pre-packaged sheet masks infused with acerola extract.

If you are lucky enough to have the chance to visit Okinawa, be sure to keep an eye out for this gem-like fruit and try it for yourself!

About the author:  

Nadine Lindskog
Nadine first became interested in Japan and Japanese culture after working with an exchange program at her university. After hearing so many wonderful things from the exchange students she worked with she was longing for a chance to see Japan for herself. That opportunity came to her in the form of the JET program where she spent 5 years on a small island in the beautiful prefecture of Okinawa. While living in this very rural community of just under 1,300 people she was lucky to experience a glimpse into some of Okinawa’s unique traditions and culture. In her free time, she traveled the main island of Japan as well as eastern Asia, seeking out the most delicious foods and exciting experiences. She currently resides in the United States but hopes to return to Japan in the future.