Goji berries are spreading on menus

The goji berry, also known as the wolfberry, is a bright orange-red berry that comes from a shrub native to China. Goji berries, which have been eaten for generations in the East, and for a couple of decades in the United States, are enjoying a new boost as other fruits not traditionally eaten by most Americans, such as açaí and dragon fruit, are also enjoying more appeal as many consumers increasingly seek out ingredients with perceived health benefits.

Goji berries are touted for helping in a wide variety of areas, including athletic performance, sleep, weight loss and longevity. Some people even take them to help with diabetes, high blood pressure, and age-related eye problems.

They can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried, or infused in teas and blended in smoothies.

They also can be used in salads or enjoyed as snacks on their own.

Market research firm Datassential reports that goji berries are found on 1.1% of U.S. menus and their presence has increased by 27% over the past four years.

Click through the gallery to learn more about this Flavor of the Week and see how one restaurant is using goji berries on its menu.