PINEAPPLE

Foods included in this definition: Pineapple

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Description:  Pineapples are a sweet-tasting fruit of tropical origin. The outside skin is spiky, but the inside is bright yellow or golden and juicy with a sweet aroma.

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When is it in Season?

Spring, Fall, and Winter

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How to Buy it

• Look for pineapples that are ​

  • spot-free

  • not bruised

  • not darkened around the "eyes" ​

• A pineapple that smells sweet on the end can indicate that it is perfectly ripe. Color is not a good indicator because ripe pineapple can have a range of colors in the outer shell. Unlike a banana or mango, the outer color of the fruit does not usually indicate how ripe the inner part of the fruit is. 

• While plucking a leaf out of the top, center of the pineapple is not the most accurate way to test for a good pineapple, some swear by this method. It is said that if you pluck a leaf out of the very center, top of the pineapple and it comes out easily, the pineapple is ripe and will be sweet-tasting. This method has no known scientific evidence, but it can't hurt to try it! 

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How to use it​

Pineapples are consumed in a variety of ways, including fresh, cooked, juiced, dried, freeze-dried, grilled, and preserved.

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How to Store It

• Pineapple can be left out on a clean surface, in a room-temperature environment, for at least 2-3 days prior to serving

• Since it is perishable, pineapple should be watched closely to prevent spoiling. 

• Ripe pineapple, when not being served or consumed, should be stored refrigerated in an airtight container. It should be checked regularly for spoiling but should be safe for consumption for up to 5-7 days.

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Pros: Pineapples help to add an exotic element to virtually any dish, and also add a variety of vitamins and minerals as a nutrient dense and delicious fruit.

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Cons: Purchasing and preparing a pineapple can take some special skills, and you will need to cultivate a knack for noticing when a pineapple is at its peak level of ripeness. 

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ANNI advice: 

• Check on your pineapple once daily before serving it to make sure it doesn't spoil.  

• Fresh cut pineapple freezes very well, and requires no other preparation other than packaging and storing them in a food safe way. ​

• Pineapple is a great source of vitamins while also naturally being free of fat and saturated fat.

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