All About Grapes!
Grapes have been cultivated for over 8,000 years. Wine residue dating from roughly 6,000 BCE has been found in ancient pottery jars uncovered in the Central Asian state of Georgia. The practice spread to the Middle East, as evidenced by references in texts such as the Code of Hammurabi and the Hebrew Bible. Wine drinking eventually spread to Europe through the Greeks.
A natural yeast forms on grapes which aids in the fermentation process. Grapes are used in diverse food products, including vinegar, juice, jellies, jams, oils and, of course, dried into raisins.
Californian table grape production began in 1839 when William Wolfskill, a former Kentucky fur-trapper, planted the first such vineyard in the pueblo of Los Angeles. The naturally sweet treats were a hit, and farmers began cultivating vineyards in California. Today, 99% of the table grapes consumed in the USA are grown in the Golden State.
Nutritionally grapes are rich in Thiamine, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6, Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Phosphorous, Potassium, and Calcium. Red and purple grapes have resveratrol which is both anti-fungal and an anti-oxidant. Consuming grapes can help prevent heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. It is a low glycemic fruit and is considered safe for diabetics. Grapes are also known for anti-cancerous qualities as well as anti-aging benefits.
Commercially grown grapes are notorious for pesticide residue. Thankfully, the Co-op exclusively stocks organically grown or pesticide free grapes. Enjoy alone, in a salad, or with nuts or cheese to compliment grapes naturally delicious flavor.
