Meet Lucuma - Benefits, Taste & Uses

LUCUMA

History, Benefits & Uses

What is Lucuma

Lucuma is a mildly sweet Andean fruit that grows on evergreen trees, originating in South America. Known as a source of insoluble fiber, it is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for blood sugar management. Lucuma is native to Peru, Chile, and Ecuador, known as the “Gold of the Incas”. The Incas believed that Lucuma symbolized longevity and fertility, and that it received its spiritual powers through the rays of the sun.

Traditionally, Lucuma has been used as a natural sweetener, being featured in things such as ice cream and yogurt. When sugarcane was considered a luxury, people used lucuma as a sugar substitute. Lucuma’s use as a sugar alternative has popularized it as a sweet and fiber-dense superfood.

What does lucuma taste like?

Lucuma has a rich and mildly sugary taste that is often compared to butterscotch and sweet potatoes.

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How We Use Lucuma

Lucuma’s naturally sweet, caramel-like flavor shows up in several Kuli Kuli favorites. In our Ube Coconut Latte, it rounds out creamy coconut and earthy ube with a gentle, dessert-like sweetness. Our Gut Bliss Superfood Blend pairs lucuma with nutrient-rich moringa and fiber-packed baobab to support healthy digestion. In our Energy Shakes, lucuma adds smooth, mellow sweetness to a plant-powered blend that keeps you fueled on the go.

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The Benefits of Lucuma

Blood Sugar Management

Lucuma has a low glycemic index, which makes it a great alternative for sugar because it provides sweetening without any energy crashes.

Supports Healthy Digestion

Lucuma is also a great source of fiber, which is key to maintaining a healthy digestive system.

Rich in Antioxidants

Lucuma contains powerful antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress, supporting your body’s defense against aging and environmental stressors.

Skin Health Properties

Lucuma is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help support collagen production and protect the skin, promoting a healthy, radiant glow.

Essential Minerals

Lucuma aids in daily metabolic function and electrolyte balance by providing your body with a natural boost of minerals.

The Secret "Gold of the Incas"

Vitamin B3

Helps support digestion, skin & nervous system functions.

Vitamin C

Helps support immunity & skin health.

Potassium

Helps regulate fluids & supports muscle function.

Calcium

A good source of calcium for strong bones.

Iron

Lucuma contains high levels of iron for energy.

Phosphorus

Supports strong bones & filters bodily waste.

The Secret "Gold of the Incas"

Vitamin B3

Helps support digestion, skin & nervous system functions.

Vitamin C

Helps support immunity & skin health.

Potassium

Helps regulate fluids & supports muscle function.

Calcium

A good source of calcium for strong bones.

Iron

Lucuma contains high levels of iron for energy.

Phosphorus

Supports strong bones & filters bodily waste.

Sourcing Lucuma

Lucuma originates from the Pouteria Lucuma tree, which is native to the Andean valleys of Peru, Chile, and Ecuador. To harvest Lucuma, the fruits are first ripened, during which they are left on the tree for 4-10 days, and are then hand-picked by workers. To turn Lucuma into powder, the fruits are washed and peeled, and the large dark brown seeds are removed. The pulp of the fruit is sliced and dried at temperatures between 45 and 60 degrees Celsius to maintain its color, flavor, and nutrients. It is then pulverized to create a fine powder. Because of Lucuma’s high quantity of fiber, its powdered form is frequently included in beverages to add digestive benefits.