Grape Glossary

Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds in foods and beverages that can help protect healthy cells from the damaging effects of oxidative stress, a condition that may, over time, have an impact on health. Vitamins C, E, and A (as beta-carotene), and the mineral selenium, as well as certain phytonutrients (such as polyphenols), can act as antioxidants.

Concord Grape

Concord grape is a hearty American grape with a thick, dark purple skin and seeds that naturally have plant nutrients (phytonutrients) called polyphenols. Not only do polyphenols give Concord grapes their vibrant color, but these plant nutrients also act as antioxidants and deliver other benefits to promote health. Seedless grapes, like table grapes, do not appear to contain the same quantity of these polyphenols.

Flavonoids

Flavonoids are the largest and most studied sub-group of polyphenols and represent the vast majority of the polyphenols found in both the Niagara and Concord grapes. There are thousands of different flavonoids in fruits, vegetables and certain plant-derived beverages (i.e. teas and juices). Many of these flavonoids act as antioxidants and are becoming popular because of growing science that suggests flavonoids may have health-supporting effects.

Niagara Grape

Niagara grape is a hearty American grape, and like its cousin the Concord, it is a seeded grape with natural plant nutrients (phytonutrients) called polyphenols. Seedless grapes, like table grapes, do not appear to contain the same quantity of these potentially health-supporting phytonutrients.

Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients are plant-based nutrients that appear to have health-supporting effects but are not considered essential for human survival. Fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and teas have these compounds which are being actively studied for their potential impact on health.

Polyphenols

Polyphenols are a sub-group of phytonutrients. They are found in foods like onions, tea, red wine, grapes, and certain nuts. Polyphenols naturally protect plants against pathogens, parasites, and predators, and often contribute to the flavor and color of fruits and vegetables. Research suggests that polyphenols are responsible for the Concord grape’s heart-health benefits.