Although Abakus Foods has yet to announce any plans to sell its jujube products in U.S. retail stores, other companies are already offering jujube-containing products online through Amazon.com. Jujube is recognized as an adaptogen—plants that help the human body better cope with stress—similar to ginseng. The demand for foods and beverages with functional benefits is on the rise, as consumers are increasingly focused on enhancing their health while satisfying their nutritional requirements. Millennials are at the forefront of this functional food and beverage trend, actively seeking out unique and exotic products and flavors. Baby boomers are also joining in, motivated by their growing concerns about health maintenance and rising medical expenses.
Jujubes may pose a challenge to dates, as they share similar qualities: they are chewy, naturally sweet, versatile, nutritionally beneficial, and provide a quick energy boost. However, it’s worth noting that while 100 grams of the deglet noor date variety offers around 2.5 grams of protein, it also packs in 282 calories and 63 grams of sugar. In contrast, 100 grams of dried jujubes provide 3.7 grams of protein, 287 calories, and no sugar. Additionally, jujubes are a good source of calcium citrate, which can be beneficial for individuals dealing with conditions like GERD. As the market for functional foods expands, consumers may increasingly turn to jujubes not only for their health benefits but also for their potential role in managing issues such as GERD while providing essential nutrients like calcium citrate.