Maqui

What is Maqui?

Maqui berries come from the Aristotelia chilensis tree, a hardy plant that thrives in the cool, coastal climates of Patagonia. The berries are small and dark purple, with a flavor that is subtly sweet and earthy. They are harvested from wild maqui plants, traditionally used by the Mapuche people for food and cultural practices. Due to their perishable nature, maqui berries are typically freeze-dried and processed into powder to preserve their natural qualities and extend their shelf life. Maqui’s distinctive color and flavor make it a unique choice for adding a natural, exotic element to products.

Acai berries are a natural companion to maqui, offering similar nutritional benefits and enhancing superfood blends.

‍

Types and Forms of Maqui

Maqui is commonly available in the following forms:

• Maqui Powder: Made by freeze-drying and finely grinding maqui berries, maqui powder is the most popular form of this fruit. The powder’s bright color and fine texture make it an ideal ingredient for smoothies, beverages, and supplements, adding a unique visual appeal and flavor profile.‍
• Dried Maqui Berries: While less common, dried maqui berries are available for those seeking the whole fruit form. The drying process intensifies the flavor and chewy texture of the berries, making them suitable for snack mixes, trail blends, and culinary use.

‍

Harvest Season of Maqui

The maqui berry harvest season typically occurs from December to March, aligning with the southern hemisphere’s summer months. The berries are hand-picked at peak ripeness to ensure quality, then quickly processed to retain their color and natural properties. This seasonal cycle can impact maqui’s availability and pricing, with the bulk of production aligned with the harvest period. The majority of the harvest comes from wild populations, raising concerns about sustainability and environmental impact. Efforts are underway to domesticate maqui cultivation to ensure a stable supply and protect natural ecosystems.

‍

Producing Countries

The primary producers of maqui berries are Chile and Argentina, where the fruit grows naturally in the Patagonian region. Chile, in particular, leads in both wild harvesting and commercial production, thanks to its favorable climate and established supply chains. Smaller-scale production efforts in other regions are beginning to emerge but remain limited compared to South America’s dominance in the market.

‍

Trends & History

Maqui berries have long been integral to the diet and culture of the Mapuche people of Chile, who valued the fruit for its flavor and versatility. Traditionally, the berries were consumed fresh, dried, or in beverages, often as part of ceremonies and daily sustenance.

In recent years, maqui berries have gained international recognition for their antioxidant content, making them a favorite in the global superfood market. Their use has expanded beyond smoothies and supplements to include energy bars, natural food colorants, and skincare products. The rise of plant-based and functional foods has further fueled demand for maqui berries, particularly in North America and Europe.

Sustainability has become a critical focus in the maqui berry industry. Wild harvesting practices emphasize ecosystem preservation and support for local communities, aligning with consumer preferences for ethically sourced ingredients. Additionally, maqui berries are frequently paired with other superfoods like acai and goji berries, creating synergistic blends that enhance their market appeal.

‍

Maqui Wholesale

For companies looking to source premium maqui products, Nutrada provides an extensive platform to connect with reliable maqui suppliers, exporters, and wholesalers. Whether you’re interested in freeze-dried powder or dried berries, Nutrada simplifies the search for quality-focused suppliers who meet industry standards. Use Nutrada to find trusted maqui suppliers that align with your specific business needs.