Whole Story

In Brazil, açaí (ah-sigh-ee) palms grow wild along the Amazon river near Macapa. These palms produce small purple berries that are packed with powerful antioxidants and are very versatile. Açaí has a unique flavor, reminiscent of berries but with a hint of chocolate. In Brazil, açaí is traditionally served in bowls as a thick pulp. Since it requires freezing to preserve its flavor and nutrients, açaí is a natural for smoothies and other frozen concoctions. It also makes a great mole, an awesome salad dressing and an incredible BBQ sauce. Read on to learn how to enter for a chance to win a trip to Brazil. Founded in 2000, Sambazon is the pioneer of organic Amazon superfoods, providing functional juices, smoothies, sorbets and frozen products made from blends of handpicked Brazilian açaí along with fruits and botanicals. Known for introducing açaí into the U.S. market, Sambazon has been working with Brazil’s local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to build the supply of organic açaí. Over 10,000 people in the Amazon now help Sambazon harvest açaí through their organic and Fair Trade program, providing a livelihood for generations to come. Sambazon wants to connect you to the amazing story behind açaí. From June 20th through July 20th, go to the Whole Foods Market Facebook page and enter for a chance to win a trip for two to Brazil. One lucky fan and a guest will win a week-long vacation for two to Brazil, where they will visit the beautiful beaches of Rio de Janeiro and explore the Amazon Rainforest. The grand prize trip features a unique opportunity to visit Sambazon’s production facilities and meet the family farmers who grow the organic and Fair Trade açaí used in the company’s products. This trip will provide a comprehensive look into the lively Brazilian culture and plentiful rainforest. Here’s a taste: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnyHXeoevUQ&feature=player_detailpage And that’s not all. For each entry received, Sambazon will donate $1 to Whole Planet Foundation (up to $20,000) to help alleviate poverty worldwide. The contest also coincides with a two week in-store promotion in which Sambazon will give 5 cents to Whole Planet Foundation for every Sambazon juice sold. Combined, Sambazon has pledged to donate up to $25,000 to Whole Planet Foundation by the end of July. Through valued microfinance institution partners worldwide, Whole Planet Foundation has empowered 146,000 clients with microcredit loans in five years, supporting more than 800,000 people in 36 countries in Asia, Africa and Central and South America. Click here to go to the contest entry page on Facebook – and don’t forget that you must enter by July 20th. Full rules are available on the contest entry page. Good luck! Boa sorte!