It’s considered by many to be the next “superfood,” and one area man feels its time has come.

The aronia berry has tart taste, but that’s often overlooked due to its perceived health benefits.

As it continues to spread in popularity due to its antioxidant level, rural Marshalltown resident Roy Bradbury is at the forefront of the wave.

Bradbury, 77, has been growing the berry since 2009 and currently has 5 acres in his yard in production in eastern Marshall County, south of Green Mountain. He said the berry has helped lower his cholesterol and made his heart rate more regular.

“It just helps the body be as healthy as it can be,” Bradbury said. “The health benefits just blow the thing away.”

Bradbury has more than 800 plants that produce the berry and he said this year could be a good crop able to produce more than 3,000 pounds of berries.

He supplies his aronia berries to approximately 100 people, many of whom also swear by its health benefits. His type of berry is a Viking aronia, which is organically grown at his home.

There are many ways to eat the aronia, formerly known as chokeberry for its tartness. Bradbury said he makes a breakfast smoothie with 20 berries, water, a banana and vanilla yogurt.

A recent Associated Press report indicated the aronia berry’s popularity has grown from a novelty item at farmers markets to a multi-million dollar U.S. industry.

Bradbury said Iowa weather is ideal to have the berries grow, as is the weather in several other Midwestern states.

“You need sun, a lot of rain and good soil,” he said.

While many in the medical field may question if the berries can fight or prevent cancer and other diseases, Bradbury is firm in his belief.

He said he has had many people who have used the berries and their health has improved, including those with cancer.

“The testimonials are just incredible,” Bradbury said.

To learn about the berry or his operation, call Bradbury at 641-474-2306.