This is a small berry that is initially white, turning a deep red when fully ripe. It is edible but has an acidic taste that can overwhelm its sweetness.
Native to North America cranberries are also called the Large Cranberry, American Cranberry or Bearberry. They are related to blueberries and are rich in proanthocyanidins, malic, quinic, citric and benzoic acids and d-mannose.
Cranberries come from a small evergreen shrub or trailing vine Vaccinium macrocarpon or Vaccinium Oxycoccus. A major commodity crop, most cranberries are processed into juice or preserves or sweetened and dried as a snacking ‘super-fruit’ due to their nutrient content and antioxidant qualities. They are also used to make food supplements.