By Andrea Germanos
Food safety campaigners on Thursday welcomed a federal court's finding that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) violated U.S. law in its approval of genetically engineered salmon.
- Will More GMO Foods Be Approved Under FDA's New Leadership ... ›
- FDA Puts U.S. Consumers at 'Serious Risk' by Allowing GE Salmon ... ›
- Judge to FDA: Agency Must Pull Aside Curtain on GE Salmon ... ›
- 'Salmon People: The Risks of Genetically Engineered Fish for the ... ›
EcoWatch Daily Newsletter
Bayer's $10 billion settlement to put an end to roughly 125,000 lawsuits against its popular weed killer Roundup, which contains glyphosate, hit a snag this week when a federal judge in San Francisco expressed skepticism over what rights future plaintiffs would have, as the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
- Judge Blocks California From Putting Cancer Warning on Roundup ... ›
- Bayer Settles Roundup Cancer Suits for Over $10 Billion - EcoWatch ›
Like many other plant-based foods and products, CBD oil is one dietary supplement where "organic" labels are very important to consumers. However, there are little to no regulations within the hemp industry when it comes to deeming a product as organic, which makes it increasingly difficult for shoppers to find the best CBD oil products available on the market.
Spruce
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjI3OC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyOTM2NzgzOX0.axY0HjeqRctJsR_KmDLctzDpUBLBN-oNIdqaXDb4caQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="774be" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8379f35b1ca8a86d0e61b7d4bfc8b46e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="spruce organic cbd oil" data-width="710" data-height="959" /><p>As one of the best brands in the business, Spruce CBD is well-known for its potent CBD oils that feature many additional beneficial phytocannabinoids. This brand works with two family-owned, sustainably focused farms in the USA (one located in Kentucky and one in North Carolina) to create its organic, small product batches. The max potency Spruce CBD oil contains 2400mg of full-spectrum CBD extract, but the brand also offers a lower strength tincture with 750mg of CBD in total.</p>CBDistillery
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjkzNC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMTU4OTM4Nn0.ypRdeDSBcE87slYrFfVrRwtJ2qGIK6FD5jBB4pndTMo/img.jpg?width=980" id="b473b" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9930b53c9d58cb49774640a61c3e3e75" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="cbdistillery cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>All of the products from CBDistillery are <a href="https://ushempauthority.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">U.S. Hemp Authority Certified</a>, and for good reason. The company only uses non-GMO and pesticide-free industrial hemp that's grown organically on Colorado farms. Its hemp oils are some of the most affordable CBD products on the market, yet they still maintain a high standard of quality. CBDistillery has a wide variety of CBD potencies across its product line (ranging from 500mg to 5000mg per bottle) and offers both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD oils to give customers a completely thc-free option.</p>FAB CBD
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIyNS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NDIwOTEyMn0.MlTjz096FJ0ev_-soK7_Z-FeQeJczWoeh9Qi9SSkHsY/img.jpg?width=980" id="04b26" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="76aa4862f44603242e318982acea6646" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="fab cbd oil" data-width="800" data-height="800" /><p>For an organic CBD oil that has it all, FAB CBD offers plenty of variety for any type of consumer. All of its products are made with zero pesticides and extracted from organically grown Colorado industrial hemp. FAB CBD oil comes in five all-natural flavors (mint, vanilla, berry, citrus, and natural) and is also available in four strengths (300, 600, 1200, and 2400mg per bottle).</p>NuLeaf Naturals
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDY4NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1NzExNTgyMX0.D6qMGYllKTsVhEkQ-L_GzpDHVu60a-tJKcio7M1Ssmc/img.jpg?width=980" id="94e4a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="3609a52479675730893a45a82a03c71d" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="nuleaf naturals organic cbd oil" data-width="600" data-height="600" /><p>As an industry-leading brand, it comes as no surprise that NuLeaf Naturals sources its CBD extract from organic hemp plants grown on licensed farms in Colorado. The comany's CBD oils only contain two ingredients: USDA certified organic hemp seed oil and full spectrum hemp extract.</p><p>NuLeaf Naturals uses one proprietary CBD oil formula for all of its products, so you will get the same CBD potency in each tincture (60mg per mL), but can purchase different bottle sizes depending on how much you intend to use.</p>Charlotte's Web
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNDcwMjk3NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzQ0NjM4N30.SaQ85SK10-MWjN3PwHo2RqpiUBdjhD0IRnHKTqKaU7Q/img.jpg?width=980" id="84700" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="a2174067dcc0c4094be25b3472ce08c8" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" alt="charlottes web cbd oil" data-width="1244" data-height="1244" /><p>Perhaps one of the most well-known brands in the CBD landscape, Charlotte's Web has been growing sustainable hemp plants for several years. The company is currently in the process of achieving official USDA Organic Certification, but it already practices organic and sustainable cultivation techniques to enhance the overall health of the soil and the hemp plants themselves, which creates some of the highest quality CBD extracts. Charlotte's Web offers CBD oils in a range of different concentration options, and some even come in a few flavor options such as chocolate mint, orange blossom, and lemon twist.</p>- Best CBD Oils of 2020: Reviews & Buying Guide - EcoWatch ›
- Best CBD Oil for Pain Management - Top 10 CBD Oil Review 2020 ... ›
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- Full Spectrum CBD Oil: What To Know - EcoWatch ›
- Charlotte's Web: A Review of the Certified B Corp CBD Brand ›
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- Best CBD for Sleep (Lab-Tested, Person-Tested Oils) - EcoWatch ›
- CBD Oil for Dogs: 7 Benefits & Treatment Guide - EcoWatch ›
- NuLeaf Naturals CBD Review | Are They Worth The Cost? - EcoWatch ›
- Best CBD Capsules & Pills - Buyer's Guide (Update for 2021) - EcoWatch ›
- Because Price Matters: Most Affordable CBD Oils of 2021 - EcoWatch ›
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In one of the largest civil settlements in U.S. history, Bayer agreed Wednesday to pay more than $10 billion to resolve around 95,000 cases claiming its glyphosate-based weedkiller Roundup causes cancer.
- Man Who Developed Cancer After Roundup Use Awarded More ... ›
- Trump's EPA Backs Bayer's Appeal in Roundup Verdict Appeal ... ›
- More Monsanto Roundup Cancer Trials Expected to Be Postponed ... ›
- Former Monsanto CEO Ordered to Testify at Roundup Cancer Trial ... ›
- Roundup Cancer Settlement Hits Snag With Judge Over Future Plaintiffs' Rights - EcoWatch ›
Trending
A federal judge in California ruled on Monday that the state cannot put a cancer warning on the label of the popular herbicide Roundup, as The Associated Press reported.
- More Monsanto Roundup Cancer Trials Expected to Be Postponed ... ›
- Trump's EPA Backs Bayer's Appeal in Roundup Verdict Appeal ... ›
- California Scientists: Safe Level of Roundup Is 100x Lower Than ... ›
- Judge Says Public Doesn't Need Cancer Warning Label - EcoWatch ›
- Roundup Cancer Settlement Hits Snag With Judge Over Future Plaintiffs' Rights - EcoWatch ›
A federal court overturned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) approval of dicamba Wednesday, meaning the controversial herbicide can no longer be sprayed in the U.S.
- Bayer and BASF Ordered to Pay $265 Million to U.S. Peach Farmer ... ›
- Trump's EPA Backs Bayer's Appeal in Roundup Verdict Appeal ... ›
- 'Dangerous Drift-Prone Pesticide' Threatens Millions of Acres ... ›
Documents unearthed in a lawsuit brought by a Missouri farmer who claimed that Monsanto and German chemical maker BASF's dicamba herbicide ruined his peach orchard revealed that the two companies knew their new agricultural seed and chemical system would likely damage many U.S. farms, according to documents seen by The Guardian.
- Bayer and BASF Ordered to Pay $265 Million to U.S. Peach Farmer ... ›
- Missouri's Largest Peach Farmer Sues Monsanto for Losses From ... ›
A new investigation revealed that Monsanto funneled money to secretly fund academic studies that warned of catastrophic consequences to farmers if glyphosate was banned in the UK, according to research from the German watchdog LobbyControl, as The Guardian reported.
Trending
Monsanto Roundup Cancer Trial Postponed in St. Louis, Bayer Stock Climbs
By Carey Gillam
A highly anticipated Roundup cancer trial set to start later this month in the St. Louis area has been pulled from the docket, a court official said on Wednesday.
- Monsanto Cancer Ruling Sparks Backlash Around the Globe ... ›
- Glyphosate Spin Check: Tracking Claims About the Most Widely ... ›
- More Monsanto Roundup Cancer Trials Expected to Be Postponed ... ›
- Former Monsanto CEO Ordered to Testify at Roundup Cancer Trial ... ›
Update, Jan. 8: On Wednesday, St. Louis County Court spokeswoman Christine Bertelson confirmed that one trial set to start Jan. 27 has been officially postponed with no new trial date yet set. That trial was to pit a woman named Sharlean Gordon against Monsanto.
By Carey Gillam
Discussions are underway to postpone one or more highly anticipated Roundup cancer trials set to start in January, including trials scheduled for St. Louis, the former hometown of Roundup herbicide maker Monsanto Co., according to sources close to the litigation.
- Former Monsanto CEO Ordered to Testify at Roundup Cancer Trial ... ›
- Cancer Takes Toll as New Roundup Trials Near - EcoWatch ›
- Judge Blocks California From Putting Cancer Warning on Roundup - EcoWatch ›
- Bayer Settles Roundup Cancer Suits for Over $10 Billion - EcoWatch ›
Trending
GMO Mosquitoes to Control the Spread of Disease Carries Unknown Risks
By Natalie Kofler, Françoise Baylis, Graham Dellaire, Landon J Getz
Every year, around one million people die of mosquito-borne diseases according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This is why mosquitoes are considered one of the deadliest living creatures on the planet — not because they are lethal themselves, but because many of the viruses and parasites they transmit are.
Genetically Modified Mosquitoes
<p>The transfer of new genes from GM organisms to wild or domesticated non-GM populations is a key criticism of GM crops like soybean and corn. There are concerns that the introduction of GM genes into non-target species could have <a href="https://www.nature.com/scitable/topicpage/genetically-modified-organisms-gmos-transgenic-crops-and-732/" target="_blank">negative consequences for both human and environmental health</a>.</p><p>Oxitec, a company that spun out of research at Oxford University in the early 2000s, developed and trademarked GM <a href="https://www.oxitec.com/our-technology" target="_blank">Friendly™ mosquitoes</a> (also known as strain OX513A of <em>Aedes aegypti</em>). These male GM mosquitoes have what the company describes as a "self-limiting" gene, which means that when these so-called friendly mosquitoes mate, their offspring inherit the self-limiting gene which is supposed to prevent them surviving into adulthood.</p><p>In theory, when these mosquitoes are released in high numbers, a dramatic reduction in the mosquito population should follow.</p><span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8d418a7c3cf175000fe60ea35aab2cb5"><iframe lazy-loadable="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5dRGPsx3tAw?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span>Changes to the Gene Pool
<p>According to research published by Oxitec researchers in 2015, field trials involving recurring releases of Friendly™ mosquitoes demonstrated <a href="https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0003864" target="_blank">a reduction of nearly 95 percent of target populations in Brazil</a>. In these field trials, experiments were not performed to assess whether GM mosquitoes might persist in the wild.</p><p>A recent study from the Powell lab at Yale University has since confirmed that <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-49660-6" target="_blank">some of the offspring of the GM mosquitoes didn't succumb to the self-limiting lethal gene and survived to adulthood</a>. They were able to breed with native mosquitoes and thereby introduce some of their genes into the wild population.</p><p>The Yale researchers found that mosquitoes captured at six, 12 and up to 30 months post-release carried DNA from the GM mosquito population, thereby disproving "<a href="https://news.yale.edu/2019/09/10/transgenic-mosquitoes-pass-genes-native-species" target="_blank">the claim that genes from the release strain would not get into the general population because offspring would die</a>."</p><p>It appears that between five and 60 percent of the captured mosquitoes post-release contained genetic sequences inherited from the Friendly™ mosquitoes. Importantly, the number of mosquitoes identified as still containing DNA derived from GM mosquitoes declined between the 12-month and 27-month capture periods specifically, perhaps indicating that the offspring of GM mosquitoes might be less fit in nature after all. This remains to be shown conclusively.</p>Unknown Potential Impacts
<p><span>Meanwhile, the impact of mosquitoes carrying these new genes remains largely unknown. One significant worry is that a new breed of mosquito might emerge that is more difficult to control. These new genes could also potentially alter evolutionary pressures on viruses carried by mosquitoes, like dengue fever, in unpredictable ways. This includes potentially increasing their virulence or changing their host-insect interactions. These are hypothetical risks that have been raised by scientists, and reflect the need for further study.</span><br></p><p>Thus, like GM soybean or corn, there is legitimate concern about the propagation of <a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.5402/2011/369573" target="_blank">new genetic material</a> in wild populations with as yet unknown consequences.</p><p>Field trials involving the release of GM organisms are typically designed to evaluate safety and efficacy, to assess possible impact on food networks, and to ensure that there is no (or minimal) undue harm to the environment or human health. Put simply, field trials are meant to assess potential harms associated with genetic technologies and to provide opportunities to minimize these harms before moving forward with more large-scale releases.</p><p>This raises two important questions: Given that <a href="https://time.com/the-war-against-mosquito/" target="_blank">"around 5 percent or less"</a> of the GM mosquito population was expected to survive, shouldn't Oxitec have made plans to assess the risk of gene transfer to wild populations during their initial trials? And shouldn't the Brazilian government have required such an assessment as part of the regulatory approval process, <a href="https://bch.cbd.int/database/record.shtml?documentid=105833" target="_blank">given their awareness of the risk</a>?</p><p>Instead, with approval from Brazilian authorities, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/eea.12618" target="_blank">Oxitec released nearly half a million GM mosquitoes every week into shared environments in Jacobina over a two-year period from 2013 to 2015</a>. This was done without the benefit of adequate risk assessment and without proper public consultation.</p><p>Oxitec reports having used leaflets, social media, carnival parades and community meetings to inform the public of their research. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/23299460.2017.1326257" target="_blank">Public education is not the same as public consultation and engagement</a> and, in our view, the people living in the vicinity of this release had more than a right to be informed of the plans. They also had a <a href="https://science.sciencemag.org/content/362/6414/527.summary" target="_blank">right to participate</a> in relevant decision-making.</p><p>On the basis of presumed success in Brazil where mosquito populations were reduced — a consequential <a href="https://www.who.int/bulletin/volumes/94/8/16-020816.pdf" target="_blank">reduction in the prevalence of dengue fever</a> has yet to be demonstrated — plans have been made to extend field trials to other jurisdictions, including <a href="https://www.oxitec.com/florida" target="_blank">the Florida Keys in the U.S</a>.</p><p>To date, public pushback <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/nbt.3927" target="_blank">has temporarily prevented</a> the release of GM mosquitoes in the Florida Keys. But Oxitec hopes to eventually secure approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to perform field trials and assess release of a <a href="https://keysweekly.com/42/oxitec-reveals-new-technology-up-for-epa-consideration/" target="_blank">second-generation GM mosquito</a> that causes lethality only in female mosquitoes, as another means to collapse wild populations.</p>Regulating Genetic Modification
<p>In the end, minus the <a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2019/09/study-dna-spread-genetically-modified-mosquitoes-prompts-backlash" target="_blank">hyperbole and somewhat alarmist reporting of the Yale study</a> (the journal is looking into <a href="https://www.genomeweb.com/scan/pushback-mosquito-paper#.XZJv0S2ZNTZ" target="_blank">allegations brought forth by Oxitec of speculative and unsubstantiated claims</a>), the finding that offspring of GM mosquitoes could survive in the wild remains undisputed. This illustrates the importance of careful decision-making and adequate oversight of field trials involving the release of GM organisms. Careful decision-making requires open venues for informed and deliberative public dialogue, engagement and empowerment.<br></p><p>Genetic modification technologies need to be more transparent, as do the scientific processes for evaluating their risks, especially where the rights and needs of affected communities can inform technology development. With more robust and nuanced regulatory processes governing the development and release of GM organisms, it should be possible to benefit from these technologies without harming or disenfranchising the communities that are the intended beneficiaries.</p><p>Mosquito-borne illnesses cause immense human suffering, and we should continue to develop technologies to reduce that suffering. At the same time, we must be equally dedicated to designing scientific processes that are safe, ethical and just.</p>By Makayla Meixner
Blue fruits get their vibrant color from beneficial plant compounds called polyphenols.
1. Blueberries
<p>Blueberries are tasty and packed with nutrients.</p><p>They're <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/low-calorie-foods" target="_blank">low in calories</a>, high in fiber, and loaded with essential micronutrients, such as manganese and vitamins C and K (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171711/nutrients" target="_blank">3</a>).</p><p>These delicious berries are also high in anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants that help defend your cells against harm from unstable molecules called free radicals (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18759450" target="_blank">4Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31074028" target="_blank">5Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12475297" target="_blank">6Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>According to one study in 10 healthy men, the antioxidants provided in about 2 cups (300 grams) of blueberries may immediately protect your DNA against free radical damage (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23507228" target="_blank">7Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Additionally, research indicates that diets high in anthocyanins from <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-blueberries" target="_blank">blueberries</a> and other fruits and vegetables may help prevent chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and brain conditions like Alzheimer's (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25745811" target="_blank">8Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27748191" target="_blank">9Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25317174" target="_blank">10Trusted Source</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Blueberries are rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants, which play a role in preventing cell damage and may reduce chronic disease risk.</p>2. Blackberries
<p>Blackberries are sweet and nutritious dark-blue <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-reasons-to-eat-berries" target="_blank">berries</a> that offer several health benefits.</p><p>A single cup (144 grams) of blackberries packs nearly 8 grams of fiber, 40% of the recommended Daily Value (DV) for manganese, and 34% of the DV for vitamin C (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173946/nutrients" target="_blank">11</a>).</p><p>The same serving also provides 24% of the DV for vitamin K, making blackberries one of the richest fruit sources of this essential nutrient (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173946/nutrients" target="_blank">11</a>).</p><p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-vitamin-k" target="_blank">Vitamin K</a> is necessary for blood clotting and plays an important role in bone health (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26468402" target="_blank">12Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Though the relationship between vitamin K and bone health is still being researched, scientists believe that a lack of vitamin K may contribute to osteoporosis, a condition in which your bones become weak and fragile (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28403946" target="_blank">13Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>While leafy green vegetables are highest in vitamin K, a select few fruits, such as blackberries, blueberries, and prunes, also contain ample amounts to help you meet your daily needs (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171711/nutrients" target="_blank">3</a>, <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173946/nutrients" target="_blank">11</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28698808" target="_blank">14Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168162/nutrients" target="_blank">15</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Blackberries are loaded with fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. They're also one of the few fruits that are high in vitamin K, which plays an essential role in blood clotting and bone health.</p>3. Elderberries
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDUxNDc2NC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxNTcxODg1MH0.8PnMGKTE7b8Cj76kt76sMPiUoheQt8CcpAVdpBNn6j4/img.png?width=980" id="aabc2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="04676a76f321b4c4a25c5eaa89758647" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/elderberry" target="_blank">Elderberry</a> is one of the most popular plant remedies worldwide (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28198157" target="_blank">16Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24409980" target="_blank">17Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>This blue-purple fruit may help defend against the cold and flu by boosting your immune system. It's also been shown to help people recover from these illnesses faster (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9395631" target="_blank">18Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Research suggests that the beneficial plant compounds in elderberries may activate healthy immune cells that help fight off cold and flu viruses (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28282861" target="_blank">19Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>What's more, test-tube studies indicate that concentrated elderberry extracts may fight the flu virus and prevent it from infecting cells, though this is still under investigation (<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464619300313" target="_blank">20</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19682714" target="_blank">21Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>In one 5-day study, taking 4 tablespoons (60 ml) of a concentrated elderberry syrup daily helped people with the flu recover an average of 4 days quicker than those who did not take the supplement (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15080016" target="_blank">22Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>These berries are also high in <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/does-vitamin-c-help-with-colds" target="_blank">vitamins C</a> and B6, two nutrients known to promote a healthy immune system. Just 1 cup (145 grams) of elderberries provides 58% and 20% of the DVs for vitamins C and B6, respectively (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29099763" target="_blank">23Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29261855" target="_blank">24Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171727/nutrients" target="_blank">25</a>).</p><p>Keep in mind that it may be best to eat these berries cooked. Raw elderberries may cause an upset stomach, particularly if eaten unripe (<a href="https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-report/final-assessment-report-sambucus-nigra-l-fructus_en.pdf" target="_blank">26</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Elderberries are a nutritious purple-blue berry popularly used as a natural remedy for cold and flu symptoms.</p>4. Concord Grapes
<p>Concord grapes are a healthy, purple-blue fruit that can be eaten fresh or used to make wine, juices, and jams.</p><p>They're packed with beneficial plant compounds that function as antioxidants. In fact, Concord grapes are higher in these compounds than purple, green, or red <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-grapes" target="_blank">grapes</a> (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26784463" target="_blank">27Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Though more research is needed, some studies show that Concord grapes and their juice may boost your immune system (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19640969" target="_blank">28Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>For example, one 9-week study that had people drink 1.5 cups (360 ml) of Concord grape juice daily observed increases in beneficial immune cell counts and blood antioxidant levels, compared with a placebo group (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21138361" target="_blank">29Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Additionally, several smaller studies suggest that drinking Concord grape juice daily may boost memory, mood, and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods" target="_blank">brain health</a> (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20028599" target="_blank">30Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28429081" target="_blank">31Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19640963" target="_blank">32Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29163162" target="_blank">33Trusted Source</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Purple-blue Concord grapes may boost immunity, mood, and brain health, though more studies are needed to confirm this.</p>5. Black Currants
<p>Black currants are very tart berries with a deep, bluish-purple hue.</p><p>They can be eaten fresh, dried, or in jams and juices. You may also find them in dietary supplements.</p><p>Black currants are especially <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-c-foods" target="_blank">high in vitamin C</a>, which is a well-known and potent antioxidant.</p><p>A single cup (112 grams) of fresh blackcurrant supplies more than two times the DV for this vitamin (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/173963/nutrients" target="_blank">34</a>).</p><p>As an <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-high-in-antioxidants" target="_blank">antioxidant</a>, vitamin C helps protect against cellular damage and chronic disease. In fact, some population studies note that diets rich in this nutrient may offer significant protection against heart disease (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5000725/" target="_blank">35Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Additionally, vitamin C plays a key role in wound healing, your immune system, and the maintenance of your skin, bones, and teeth (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29099763" target="_blank">23Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK225480/" target="_blank">36Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29477224" target="_blank">37Trusted Source</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Blackcurrants are packed with vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that plays a vital role in your immune system and helps maintain healthy skin, bones, and teeth.</p>6. Damson Plums
<p>Damsons are blue <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-plums-prunes" target="_blank">plums</a> that are often processed into jams and jellies. They can also be dried to make prunes (<a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-1-4020-6907-9_11" target="_blank">38</a>).</p><p>Prunes are a popular choice for digestive problems, including <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-foods-for-constipation" target="_blank">constipation</a>, which is an ailment that affects an estimated 14% of the global population (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21606976" target="_blank">39Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>They're high in fiber, with 1/2 cup (82 grams) packing an impressive 6 grams of this nutrient (<a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168162/nutrients" target="_blank">15</a>).</p><p>As a result, eating more prunes may increase stool frequency and soften your stools, making your bowel movements easier to pass (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25109788" target="_blank">40Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29398337" target="_blank">41Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Plums also contain certain plant compounds and a type of sugar alcohol called sorbitol, which may help loosen your stools and promote more frequent bowel movements as well (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11401245" target="_blank">42Trusted Source</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Prunes made from damson plums supply fiber, beneficial plant compounds, and the sugar sorbitol — all of which may help relieve constipation.</p>7. Blue Tomatoes
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yMDUxNDc2Ni9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODUxNTU0OX0.D2pDsOIyNfq2lkDt6gK9ykTm1dlkbG35iKXwz7nf4Fg/img.png?width=980" id="de5fa" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="7b532565c2af0ec6e77c6ce3ff5fd122" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" /><p>Blue tomatoes, also known as purple or Indigo Rose tomatoes, are grown to be high in anthocyanins (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19359211" target="_blank">43Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Their high anthocyanin content gives off a purple-blue tint (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26920283" target="_blank">44Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Several studies suggest that diets high in anthocyanin-rich foods may <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/13-anti-inflammatory-foods" target="_blank">reduce inflammation</a>, protect against heart disease, and promote eye and brain health (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28974032" target="_blank">45Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25139396" target="_blank">46Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24791600" target="_blank">47Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28483533" target="_blank">48Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30277799" target="_blank">49Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22218162" target="_blank">50Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>What's more, blue tomatoes pack various other powerful antioxidant compounds typically found in regular tomatoes, such as <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/lycopene" target="_blank">lycopene</a> (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18953354" target="_blank">51Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>Observational studies link lycopene-rich diets to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and prostate cancer (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23317928/" target="_blank">52Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28983399" target="_blank">53Trusted Source</a>, <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12424325/" target="_blank">54Trusted Source</a>).</p><p><strong>Summary</strong></p><p><strong></strong>Blue tomatoes are grown to be rich in anthocyanins while retaining high amounts of other beneficial plant compounds that have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and prostate cancer.</p>The Bottom Line
<p>Aside from their delicious taste, blue fruits offer a wide array of health benefits.</p><p>They're nutrient-dense sources of powerful antioxidants, including vitamin C and beneficial plant compounds called anthocyanins.</p><p>Due to their high antioxidant content, these fruits may reduce inflammation and stave off chronic conditions like heart disease and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods-to-avoid-with-diabetes" target="_blank">type 2 diabetes</a> (<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28974032" target="_blank">45Trusted Source</a>).</p><p>To boost your health, eating a variety of blue fruits regularly may be worthwhile.</p>U.S. District Judge Vince Chhabria announced his ruling in San Francisco on Monday.
Roundup products for sale in California.
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