Pineapple
Pineapple/Paināporo
Availability
Pineapples are imported and are available all year round.
Storage and Handling
Ripen on the bench and store in the fridge once cut. Handle all fresh produce with care and wash before eating.
History
Pineapples are native to Brazil. Cultivation by the Indian people saw pineapple plants spread up through South America. Spanish explorers took the fruit back to Spain. They were carried on ships to help prevent the disease, scurvy.
Facts
- Pineapples have an enzyme that can tenderise meat if used in a marinade
- The fruit was first called “Anana” meaning “excellent fruit” in the Carribean
- The Spanish explorers thought pineapples looked like pinecones, so they called them "Pina."
- The English added "apple" to associate it with juicy, delectable fruit
Growing Facts
- Pineapple plants grow from the crowns of other pineapples that have been hand planted
- They grow to about 120cm and produce one pineapple per season
- Once picked pineapples become juicier but not sweeter
- Pineapple plants can continue to fruit for up to 50 years
- Pineapples grow well in Hawaii and Central and South America
Nutrition Information
Pineapples are a good source of manganese and vitamin C and a source of dietary fibre and potassium.
You will find the full Nutrition Information Panel on the New Zealand Food Composition Data website. This website is owned jointly by Plant & Food Research and the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health. This website holds the most comprehensive collection of high-quality nutrient data for New Zealand foods. The Database is managed and maintained by dedicated Plant & Food Research staff.
