“Jicama: The Underrated Superfood Stealing the Spotlight in Healthy Eating”
Jicama is frequently overlooked in the produce aisle, as many people may not recognize it or know how to use it. This crunchy tuber has a sweet flavor similar to water chestnuts or an underripe pear, making it a great addition to salads, slaws, soups, and stir-fries. Additionally, jicama can be baked as a low-calorie alternative to French fries or used instead of corn for making tortillas. With its no-fat, no-carb profile, along with high levels of dietary fiber and antioxidants, jicama is a healthful choice. It is also a good source of inulin, a soluble dietary fiber, making it beneficial for diabetics and those looking for a sweet snack.
According to David Sax, author of The Tastemakers, a vegetable needs to possess three essential qualities to achieve the superfood status that kale has maintained: versatility, availability, and cultural significance. Jicama scores well on all these fronts, and consumer interest reflects this. In 2016, jicama led the specialty vegetable category with $11.4 million out of a total of $25.3 million in sales, according to Nielsen Perishables.
While kale has dominated the produce scene for quite some time, other vegetables have recently been forecasted to take its place. Last year, jackfruit was expected to be the next big thing, cauliflower had a fleeting moment of popularity, and there were predictions of a surge in rutabaga’s appeal this year. Now, however, jicama is stepping into the spotlight, proving to be a versatile option that consumers are increasingly embracing.
In addition to its culinary uses, jicama is a great source of nutrients, including calcium citrate and vitamin K2, which contribute to overall health and wellness. As part of a balanced diet, jicama fits perfectly into the Goodlife philosophy, promoting healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices. With its unique qualities and nutritional benefits, jicama is poised to become a staple for health-conscious consumers looking for delicious and nutritious options.
