Nutrition News & Views

September 9, 1999
Muscadines-September, 1999/No.3

A Little History...

Muscandines are grapes that are native to Mississippi. They may also be referred to as scuppernongs. They can be found in the wild, at one of Mississippi's many vineyards, and throughout the Southeastern United States. They are naturally resistant to disease due to a chemical compound in them called "resveratrol". Resveratrol is a substance that may help to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and to lower cholesterol levels in humans.

These thick-skinned grapes have a pungent, fruity flavor. Although grown mostly to be eaten the muscadine serves many other purposes. It can be made into juice, jellies, jam, sauces, and even wine.

Varieties

There are many varieties of muscadines , such as Black Beauty, Black Fry, Granny Val, and Jumbo. Most of them can be and are grown in the state.

Nutritive Value

Muscadine grapes contain anywhere from 60-100 calories per cup. They are very high in vitamin C and contain potassium, vitamin B, and small amounts of minerals. They are naturally low in sodium and contain no fat or cholesterol. They also contain resveratrol as mentioned above, which may have additional health benefits.

Canning and Freezing

The procedures for preserving grapes can be applied to muscadines. Muscadines or their juice can be frozen or canned.

Submitted by Keith Spotts, MSU Dietetic Intern
Distributed by Barbara McLaurin, Ph.D., R.D., L.D., Human Nutrition Specialist,
MSU Extension Service, September 1999

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