The Miracle Berry: I Want to Trip…Off Food

By Sues

I’m not really into drugs and don’t know a whole lot about tripping. However, you mention the words flavor-tripping, and my ears might perk up a little. I am, after all, very into food and cooking, and while I’ve had many meals that make me feel like I’ve died and gone to heaven, I’ve never actually tripped off my food. Is that even possible?

Apparently, there is a berry that will make Tabasco sauce taste like glazed doughnuts and vinegar like apple juice. It’s a West African berry called the miracle fruit and The New York Times reported on a rooftop party last week that featured this little berry. Once you pop it in your mouth, everything you eat will taste sweeter and a bit more delicious.

According to a scientist who has studied the fruit, “The cause of the reaction is a protein called miraculin, which binds with the taste buds and acts as a sweetness inducer when it comes in contact with acids.” So, you’re telling me all I need to do is eat a berry and all those healthy and bland foods will start to taste good to me? I can eat salads and vegetables all day long and make myself believe I’m eating desserts non-stop? I say bring it on. I am so ready to start tripping.

Each berry costs about $2, which could get quite expensive; otherwise bartenders would be using them a lot more. According to one NYC bartender, “It will make all wine taste like Manischewitz.” OK, so it’s not perfect. Also, one taster said it did nothing to the taste of brussel sprouts. Darn it. But still. It makes grapefruit “taste like candy” and makes goat cheese taste like cheesecake.

Reason # 4,593 why food is better than drugs.