Yes, rowan is edible, but only if prepared properly. The berries of rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) contain parasorbic acid, which can cause stomach upset if eaten raw. However, cooking, drying, or freezing the berries breaks down this acid, making rowan safe to eat.
photo: Daniel Dudka
Rowan is used to make jams, jellies, juices, tinctures and other preserves. Rowan berries are rich in vitamin C and have health-promoting properties.
Here are some tips on how to prepare rowan for consumption:
1. Cooking: Cooking the fruit for a few minutes is enough to neutralize the parasorbic acid.
2. Drying: Drying fruit in the sun or in a fruit dryer also removes toxic substances.
3. Freezing: Freezing fruit for at least 24 hours before eating also breaks down parasorbic acid.
Remember to always prepare rowan berries properly before consuming them to avoid possible health problems.