Beautyberries are indeed edible, but they are generally not eaten raw in large quantities because they have a mild, slightly medicinal, or astringent flavor with little sweetness. They are best used in recipes such as jellies, jams, syrups, tea, and sauces. The berries can be eaten raw when fully ripe, usually dark purple or magenta, but they are often more appreciated cooked or processed rather than fresh by the handful. Some people have noted that the taste can be somewhat bland or mealy, and astringent qualities that cooking can reduce. Additionally, beautyberries have traditional medicinal uses and insect-repellent properties. In summary:
- Beautyberries are safe and edible when ripe.
- They have a mild, slightly spicy or medicinal flavor.
- Best consumed as jelly, tea, syrup, or cooked recipes.
- Rarely eaten raw by the handful due to texture and taste.
- They have traditional medicinal and insect-repellent uses.
This makes beautyberries more suited for culinary uses involving cooking or processing than eating raw like other berries.
