Gum Drop Grapes Nutrition Facts, Health Benefits and Concerns

What Are Gum Drop Grapes?

Gum drop grapes are a relatively new variety of sweet seedless grapes. They are known for their super sweet flavor that resembles gumdrop candy.

Gum drops grapes are round in shape and about the size of a quarter. They have a juicy, crisp texture and reddish-purple or green skin. The taste is described as extra sugary and candy-like.

This grape variety was developed by horticulturists in California in the early 2010s. It was first made available to consumers in limited quantities in 2013. Since then, production has expanded to meet demand.

Gum drop grapes are considered a specialty grape. They are grown in small batches and sold for a premium price compared to regular table grapes. They are available for a limited time during their harvest season which runs from August through October.

Gum Drop Grape Nutrition Facts

All grapes, including the gum drop variety, are packed with nutrients and antioxidants.

One cup (92 grams) of red or green gum drop grapes contains:

• Calories: 62
• Carbs: 16 grams
• Sugar: 15 grams
• Fiber: 1 gram
• Vitamin C: 10% DV
• Vitamin K: 14% DV
• Thiamine: 7% DV
• Riboflavin: 6% DV
• Potassium: 5% DV

Gum drops are high in natural sugars but otherwise low in calories. They are fat-free, cholesterol-free, and low in sodium.

Grapes contain over 1,600 beneficial plant compounds including flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and proanthocyanidins. These function as antioxidants in the body to prevent cell damage caused by free radicals.

The vibrant colors of grapes are signs they contain antioxidants like resveratrol, quercetin, anthocyanins, catechins, and epicatechins.

Health Benefits of Gum Drop Grapes

All grapes offer a variety of potential health benefits. Gum drop grapes provide the same advantages along with their sweet flavor.

May Support Heart Health

Studies show grapes may benefit heart health in several ways including:

• Lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol
• Reducing blood pressure
• Decreasing inflammation
• Inhibiting platelet buildup in arteries

These effects are attributed to the antioxidants in grapes which help prevent cholesterol oxidation and damage to blood vessels.

May Lower Blood Sugar Levels

Research indicates grapes may help regulate blood sugar levels thanks to compounds like resveratrol. Grapes may:

• Increase insulin sensitivity
• Boost insulin production and secretion
• Decrease oxidized LDL cholesterol

These benefits make grapes a smart choice for people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Support Brain Function

The antioxidants found in grapes like resveratrol cross the blood-brain barrier and exhibit neuroprotective effects. Animal studies reveal grapes may:

• Protect brain cells against oxidative stress
• Reduce neuroinflammation
• Prevent cognitive decline

More research is needed, but these preliminary findings are promising.

May Aid Weight Loss

Despite their sweetness, grapes may support weight loss efforts in a few ways:

• Low in calories and fat
• High in satiating fiber
• Regulate blood sugar response
• Increase fat breakdown and decrease fat storage

One study found people who consumed grapes daily experienced less hunger and consumed fewer calories overall.

Other Potential Benefits

Some emerging research shows grapes may also:

• Protect liver cells from oxidative damage
• Reduce post-exercise inflammation
• Protect skin from sun damage when applied topically

However, more studies are needed to confirm these preliminary findings.

Concerns About Grapes

Grapes are safe for most people when consumed in amounts found in a typical diet. But some potential downsides exist.

Pesticide Exposure

Grapes are on the “Dirty Dozen” list of produce most likely to contain pesticide residues. Choosing organic grapes when possible can minimize exposure.

Allergies

Grapes contain histamines and may provoke allergy symptoms in sensitive individuals. Allergic reactions can include:

• Itching, tingling in mouth
• Swelling of lips, tongue, throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Hives, skin rash

Those with known grape allergies should avoid consumption.

Medication Interactions

Compounds in grapes like resveratrol may interact with cyclosporine drugs used to prevent organ rejection after transplant. Grapefruit is also known to interact with many medications.

Speak to your healthcare provider about possible grape interactions with your prescriptions.

Toxicity in Dogs

Grapes and raisins contain an unknown toxin that can damage the kidneys of dogs. Even small amounts can be dangerous. Keep grapes away from dogs.

Types of Grapes

There are several varieties of grapes grown around the world. The main types of grapes are:

Table Grapes

Table grapes are grapes intended for fresh eating. There are many different table grape cultivars including:

• Red seedless grapes like Flame Seedless and Crimson Seedless
• White seedless grapes like Thompson Seedless and Niagara
• Black seedless grapes like Concord Seedless
• Green seedless grapes like Sugraone and Princess

Table grapes are larger, juicier, and sweeter than wine grapes. Popular branded varieties like Cotton Candy grapes and Gum Drops are considered table grapes.

Wine Grapes

Wine grapes have thicker skins, more seeds, and higher acidity and tannins compared to table grapes. Popular wine grape varietals include:

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Merlot
• Pinot Noir
• Syrah
• Zinfandel
• Chardonnay
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Riesling

These grapes are too tart for fresh eating but perfect for making wines, juices, jams, and raisins.

Raisin Grapes

Raisin grapes are naturally dried into raisins. Common varieties used for raisins include:

• Thompson Seedless
• Fiesta
• DOVine
• Selma Pete

These grapes are lower in sugar than other table grapes, which allows them to dry well into shelf-stable raisins.

How to Pick the Best Grapes

Follow these tips for choosing fresh, flavorful grapes at the store:

• Look for plump, firmly attached grapes free of wrinkles
• Avoid bunches with mushy, split, or moldy grapes
• Choose intact bunches not missing grapes
• Color should be bright and consistent
• Taste a grape before purchasing if possible
• Refrigerate unwashed grapes quickly to preserve freshness

How to Store Grapes

Proper storage keeps grapes fresh and prevents spoilage.

• Leave grapes attached to stems if possible until ready to eat
• Wash just before eating
• Store unwashed grapes in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator
• Keep grapes away from foods with strong odors
• Consume grapes within 5-7 days for best quality

Freezing grapes is also an option. Wash grapes, pat dry, spread in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze. Transfer to freezer bags once frozen.

Tips for Enjoying Grapes

Here are easy ways to eat more grapes:

• Enjoy grapes on their own as a snack or dessert
• Freeze grapes for a cool treat on a hot day
• Mix grapes into yogurt, oatmeal, salads
• Blend grapes into smoothies
• Cook grapes into chutneys, compotes, jams
• Roast grapes to concentrate flavor
• Make homemade grape juice

Any type of grape can be used, so choose your favorites. Gum drop grapes add an extra sweet burst of flavor.

The Bottom Line

Gum drop grapes provide the same nutrition and health benefits as other grape varieties. Their supersweet flavor makes them an appealing healthy snack or dessert. Grapes deliver key vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber that support overall wellness.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.