Pineapple
Description
Pineapples (Ananas comosus) are tropical fruit that are rich in vitamins, enzymes and antioxidants. They may help boost the immune system, build strong bones and aid indigestion. Also, despite their sweetness, pineapples are low in calories.
Botany
Pineapples are members of the bromeliad family, and are the only bromeliad that produces edible fruit, according to the Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products. The fruit is actually made of many individual berries that fuse together around a central core. Each pineapple scale is an individual berry.
History
Pineapples originated in South America, where early European explorers named them after their resemblance to pine cones. Columbus and his crew brought pineapples back to Spain after an expedition to South America. Pineapples were soon being shipped from the Caribbean to Europe in large quantities. Europeans loved the sweet, exotic taste of the fruit and pineapple plantations were quickly established in most tropical regions of the world.
Cultivation
Pineapples are cultivated from a crown cutting of the fruit, possibly flowering in 20–24 months and fruiting in the following six months. Pineapple does not ripen significantly after harvest. Pineapples can be consumed fresh, cooked, juiced, or preserved. They are found in a wide array of cuisines. In addition to consumption, the pineapple leaves are used to produce the textile fiber piña in the Philippines, commonly used as the material for the men's barong Tagalog and women's baro't saya formal wear in the country.
Nutritional and health benefits
Pineapples are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals. They are especially rich in vitamin C and manganese, providing 131% and 76% of the daily recommendations, respectively. The vitamin C in pineapples is vital for your body's immune system and essential for growth and development, while manganese is a naturally occurring mineral that aids growth, maintains a healthy metabolism and has antioxidant properties.
Culinary uses
Pineapples are consumed both fresh and cooked, and are a staple in many types of cuisine around the world. They are used in a variety of dishes, from sweet to savory, and are a popular ingredient in many types of dessert. Pineapples are also used in cocktails, non-alcoholic beverages, and as a garnish.