What is blackcurrant powder?
Blackcurrant powder is made from freeze-dried blackcurrants (Ribes nigrum), a berry known for its exceptionally high levels of anthocyanins, compounds that have been studied for links to:
- Improved blood flow
- Eye health
- Athletic performance
- Recovery and reduced inflammation
Blackcurrants are widely enjoyed for their rich, tangy flavour and potential health benefits.
Benefits of blackcurrant powder
Studies suggest blackcurrants may:
- Enhance endurance performance
- Improve circulation
- Support cognitive function
- Reduce muscle fatigue
- Benefit skin health
Read more:
Cook, Matthew David, et al. “Cardiovascular Function during Supine Rest in Endurance-Trained Males with New Zealand Blackcurrant: A Dose–Response Study.” European Journal of Applied Physiology, vol. 117, no. 2, 24 Dec. 2016, pp. 247–254, https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-016-3512-x. Accessed 6 Apr. 2020.
Cook, Matthew David, and Mark Elisabeth Theodorus Willems. “Dietary Anthocyanins: A Review of the Exercise Performance Effects and Related Physiological Responses.” International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, vol. 29, no. 3, May 2019, pp. 322–330, https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2018-0088.
Gopalan, Ashwin, et al. “The Health Benefits of Blackcurrants.” Food & Function, vol. 3, no. 8, 2012, p. 795, https://doi.org/10.1039/c2fo30058c. Accessed 6 Mar. 2020.
Nanashima, Naoki et al. “Blackcurrant Anthocyanins Increase the Levels of Collagen, Elastin, and Hyaluronic Acid in Human Skin Fibroblasts and Ovariectomized Rats.”Nutrientsvol. 10,4 495. 16 Apr. 2018, doi:10.3390/nu10040495
Watson, Anthony W., et al. “Acute Supplementation with Blackcurrant Extracts Modulates Cognitive Functioning and Inhibits Monoamine Oxidase-B in Healthy Young Adults.” Journal of Functional Foods, vol. 17, Aug. 2015, pp. 524–39, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2015.06.005. Accessed 25 May 2021.
Willems, Mark Elisabeth Theodorus, et al. “Beneficial Physiological Effects with Blackcurrant Intake in Endurance Athletes.” International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism, vol. 25, no. 4, Aug. 2015, pp. 367–374, https://doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.2014-0233.
What makes a high-quality blackcurrant powder?
Best blackcurrant powders (comparison)
| Brand | Origin | Key Strengths | Weaknesses |
| ViBERi | New Zealand | Market leader for over 15 years, certified organic, freeze-dried, grown in New Zealand, no additives, contains Vitamin C & anthocyanins | - |
| Sujon | New Zealand | Grown in New Zealand, no additives, contains Vitamin C & anthocyanins | Not organic |
| 2before | New Zealand | Grown in New Zealand, contains Vitamin C & anthocyanins | Not organic, may contain additives |
| LOOV | Poland | Certified organic, freeze-dried, no additives, contains Vitamin C & anthocyanins | Not NZ-grown (different anthocyanin levels) |
| Bulksupplements.com | Mixed origin | Contains Vitamin C & anthocyanins | Not organic, mixed origin, contains additives including maltodextrine |
Frequently asked questions
The best blackcurrant powder is one that has high anthocyanin content, clean sourcing, and minimal processing. Products like ViBERi are often recommended due to their quality and origin.
Yes! Blackcurrants generally contain higher anthocyanin levels than other berries, such as blueberries and blackberries, making them an appealing choice for their potential health benefits. (Learn more)
One serving of ViBERi Blackcurrant Powder = 10 grams.
New Zealand Blackcurrants (NZBC) have a higher anthocyanin content range: between 336 to 850 mg/100 mL of fruit juice compared to non-NZ BCs (170 to 310 mg/100 mL of juice). (source)
Yes! Blackcurrants grown without pesticide treatment contain significantly higher levels of Vitamin C than blackcurrants grown with pesticide treatment. (learn more)