They satisfy dieters: they are low in calories.

They please health-conscious people: they have plenty of fibre, vitamin C, carotenoids, vitamin B and minerals, including calcium, phosphorus and potassium.

They are valuable for mothers-to-be: they have a high folic acid content.

They are very cleansing and excellent diuretics.

According to some, they also have an anti-depressant function: they ward off sadness and bad moods.

And last (but not least!) they make their way onto gourmets’ plates.