Kiwi cider unlocks 'secret to eternal youth'

Moa founder Josh Scott enjoying a glass of Moa Cascada cider which is claimed to have anti-ageing properties. Photo / Supplied

A designer Kiwi cider that makers claim could combat ageing has hit the shelves in time for New Year.

Moa Cascara Cider contains a dose of superfood cascara, which is used in luxury beauty products and can be brewed as a herbal tea.

The cider is the brainchild of Moa Brewing Company founder Josh Scott and Nelson-born barista Claris Jones-White.

Mr Scott expects the cider to be a hit with health-conscious tipplers.

"I never feel guilty about the drinks I consume but I know that's not the case for everyone," he said. "Knowing I have played a part in unlocking the secret to eternal youth is a career highlight."

Cascara is the skin that remains after coffee beans are removed from the inside of a coffee cherry, a thin-fleshed fruit that ripens about nine months after the coffee plant flowers.

For centuries the skin was discarded but when researchers realised coffee cherry pickers' hands were unusually soft and youthful, its anti-ageing properties were discovered.

Cascara is available in capsule form from health stores and is also an ingredient in some skin-care creams and beauty products.

Leading skin expert Dr Paul Jarrett is sceptical about any potential health benefits of the cider, which has been launched at selected Liquorland stores.

Dr Jarrett, dermatologist at Middlemore Hospital and president elect of the New Zealand Dermatological Society, is not convinced the drink will rejuvenate skin.

"I cannot find any scientific evidence to support this claim," Mr Jarrett said. "However, I am sure that the more you drink, the better you think you look."