Ever wondered why some Garlic is Purple?

If you’ve ever been in the garden and stumbled upon a head of garlic that looks distinctly purple, you’re probably wondering what is going on. Is it safe to eat? Did it get contaminated somehow? Has it gone bad? Let’s take a look why some garlic turns purple and answer the questions concerning the safety of purple garlic cloves.

What Causes Purple Garlic?

In most cases, purple garlic is caused by a particular strain of bacteria called Streptomyces sanguinis. This bacterium is found in soil where garlic is grown and produces the pigment that gives it its unique color. The bacterium does not cause any harm to the garlic itself or humans who consume it, but it does make the garlic appear slightly different from your average bulb of white-skinned garlic.

Is Purple Garlic Safe to Eat?

Yes! Despite its unusual coloration, purple garlic is perfectly safe to eat. In fact, many people prefer the flavor of purple garlic over white-skinned varieties because they tend to be sweeter and more mild in flavor. Some people also believe that purple garlic has higher levels of antioxidants than other varieties, although there has yet to be scientific evidence to back up these claims.

Does Purple Garlic Have Any Health Benefits?

Purple garlic (and all garlic) does have some health benefits associated with it. It contains high levels of allicin – a compound found in all types of raw garlic – which has been linked to lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels, and even better digestion. It also contains a nutrient called quercetin which helps reduce inflammation and boost immunity. Lastly, purple garlic contains sulfur compounds which can help protect against certain types of cancer cells.

If you ever find yourself wondering why your batch of homegrown or store-bought garlic looks distinctly purple then fear not – it’s perfectly safe to eat! Not only that but due to its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits you may actually want to seek out this special type of bulb for your next culinary adventure. Ultimately when choosing between white or purple heads of garlic consider both their taste as well as their purported health benefits – you may just be surprised at how flavorful yet beneficial this special type of garlic can be.