Yacón is considered a superfood due to its high nutritional value, which makes it beneficial for health. It is known for being rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a type of soluble fiber that is not digested by the body and gives it its sweet taste.
The Peruvian Andes are a source of ingredients with excellent health benefits. Consumed for centuries, many of these ingredients had special cultural significance and were included in religious festivities by the region’s ancient inhabitants, such as the Incas. Yacón is one of them.
Yacon, or Smallanthus sonchifolius, is a tuber that grows in the temperate regions of the Andes, between 1,000 and 3,200 meters above sea level. Its stems can grow between 2 and 2.5 meters tall, and since it’s a hardy plant that doesn’t require intensive care, it can be found in markets year-round.
One of yacón’s most notable features is that the entire plant can be consumed, although the roots are the most commonly used part. They’re often confused with sweet potatoes due to their shape and size (they can weigh up to a kilo), but they differ in texture and flavor.
The most common way to eat yacón is in its natural state. It’s easy to eat raw, thanks to its sweet flavor and juicy, crisp texture, much like an apple. In fact, its name reflects this quality — it comes from the Quechua word “yaku,” meaning “water.”
Other ways to consume yacón include cereals, flakes, powder, and syrup, often as an ingredient in other preparations. Yacón powder or flour is made by drying and pulverizing the roots, while the syrup is obtained by concentrating its juice.
Yacón is considered a superfood due to its high nutritional value, which makes it beneficial for health. It is known for being rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS), a type of soluble fiber that is not digested by the body and gives it its sweet taste.
These compounds pass through the digestive system without being broken down, as the body lacks the enzymes to do so. However, along the way, they help stimulate the growth of good bacteria in the gut and are not converted into glucose — which is why yacón is famous as a natural sweetener.
Other reasons to consume this tuber include:
Yacón syrup is used in some products consumed by people following a keto diet. It’s a natural sweetener that contains low levels of simple sugars such as fructose and glucose, helping to keep calorie intake low while also having a low carbohydrate content.
It’s worth noting that while yacón can be part of a keto diet, it’s best not to consume it daily. Instead, it’s ideal as an occasional snack or to satisfy sweet cravings. Regular consumption may cause mild digestive discomfort.
Along with yacón syrup, other keto-friendly sweeteners include stevia, sucralose, erythritol, xylitol, and monk fruit.
It’s becoming easier to access yacón and its derivatives. You can find the fresh tuber in supermarkets, and specialized stores offer products like flour and syrup.
Peruvian Nature’s yacon powder is perfect for adding to smoothies, juices, and salads — or for making desserts. Plus, by purchasing it, you are supporting fair trade with local farmers, promoting more socially and environmentally responsible food industry practices, and contributing to sustainable development.
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