The all-natural MiraBurst berry (Synsepalum dulcificum), is also known as the miracle fruit, the miraculous berry, or the sweet berry. The berry is treasured for its extraordinary effect to the taste buds. The taste-modifying result is due to Miraculin, a glycoprotein. This natural substance is found within the pulp of the berry, which when eaten, binds to the taste receptors on the tongue. Sour and acidic foods consumed after eating the MiraBurst berry will taste sweet. The berry itself does not taste sweet but produces a powerful punch of sweet flavor. The MiraBurst berry is grown on a bush, is approximately 0.75” in size and has an ellipsoidal shape similar to a grape. The bush grows slowly and eventually reaches six to fifteen feet in height when fully mature. It requires acidic soil and frost-free growing conditions to flourish. When grown from a seedling, it takes three to four years before it can bear fruit. The berry turns red when it ripens. The thin, red skin covers a layer of pulp over a seed. The seed is similar in size and color to that a coffee bean. The seed tastes slightly bitter if chewed. The plant is native to Ghana, West Africa and has been used for centuries by local tribes to sweeten their diet.
