Pineapples
- + Rich in vitamin C
- + Source of fibre
About Pineapples
Christopher Columbus first tasted this sweet, juicy tropical fruit in Guadeloupe in 1493. This deliciously sweet fruit, which is a rich source of vitamin C, is still enjoyed today. Did you know that each round scale on a pineapple is actually a small fruit that fused with all the others as it grew?
Selecting
Dole pineapples are always harvested ripe. They don't continue to ripen after picking because they have already reached their full sweetness. However, they may still have a green skin. Choose pineapples that look fresh, have green leaves and are slightly soft to the touch. This is the best way to pick the perfect pineapple!
Tip: Pineapples ripen from the bottom up. Therefore, the sugar content is higher on the ground than directly below the crown. Taste different parts of the flesh. You will taste the difference.
Storing
Pineapples do not ripen after harvest. Dole pineapples are picked ripe and transported in refrigerated containers that keep the fruit at a constant temperature of 7.5°C.
You can keep Dole pineapples in the fridge for 2 - 4 days; only a couple of days if already sliced.
Eating
Natural, fresh pineapple is sensational! Just twist off the crown, cut the pineapple in half and then into quarters. Trim off ends and remove the core. Using a thin knife, cut the shell from the fruit. Slice into bite-size pieces.
You can add pineapple to a fruit salad, yoghurt or ice cream. It also goes well with sweet-and-sour dishes and meats such as pork and poultry.
Availability of Pineapples
| no | no | no | no | no | no | no | no | no | no | no | no |
| JAN. | FEB. | MAR. | APR. | MAY | JUN. | JUL. | AUG. | SEP. | OCT. | NOV. | DEC. |
Growing regions
Thailand, Philippines, Costa Rica, Honduras and Ecuador
Nutrition facts
| Average per 165 g* | |
|---|---|
| Energy | 82.0 kcal |
| Protein | 1.0 g |
| Carbohydrate | 22.0 g |
| of which sugars | 16.0 g |
| Fat | 0.0 g |
| of which saturates | 0.0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Fibre | 2.0 g |
| Sodium | 2.0 mg |
| Calcium | 21.0 mg |
| Iron | < 1.0 mg |
| * Average values according to US Department of Agriculture | |