Researchers in the FAMU College of Agriculture and Food Sciences, Center for Viticulture and Small Fruit Research, have been awarded patents for two new strains of muscadine grapes. The “Rattler Researchers” at the Center have received patents for the “Floriana” and “Florida Onyx” grape.
The grapes are new to the grape industry. Muscadine grapes are native to the southeaster and south-central United States and are typically used in making artisan wines, juices, and jelly. In addition to tasting good, the grapes are high in fiber and high in antioxidants have been known to have demonstrated anticariogenic properties in the colon, lungs and liver and have been reported to lower cholesterol and the risk of coronary heart disease.
The FAMU Center for Viticulture and Small Fruits is the oldest specialized viticulture research program in the southeastern United States.