Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is known for its sweet, tart taste and distinctive spiky, crown-like appearance. The fruit is native to South America, but is now widely cultivated in tropical regions around the world. Pineapples are usually eaten fresh or used in a variety of dishes, including desserts, smoothies, and savoury dishes. Pineapple contains many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and manganese. It also contains a group of digestive enzymes called bromelain, which can aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory effects. Pineapples are available in many different varieties, with varying levels of sweetness and acidity. A scientist, S. Wilson Wijewatnam, revealed 10 unknown facts about pineapples. They are:
1. Pineapples are not a single fruit, but rather, a cluster of berries that have fused together around a central core.
2. The word “pineapple” was originally used to describe pine cones, and was later applied to the tropical fruit because of its similar appearance.
3. Pineapples contain a group of digestive enzymes called bromelain, which can break down proteins and help with digestion.
4. Pineapples were first cultivated in South America, and were later introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus.
5. Pineapples were once considered a symbol of wealth and status, and were often displayed at dinner parties as a centerpiece.
6. Pineapples can take up to two years to mature, and they only produce one fruit per plant.
7. Pineapple juice can be used as a natural meat tenderizer because of its bromelain content.
8. Pineapple plants are actually bromeliads, a family of plants that also includes Spanish moss and the air plant.
9. Pineapples are high in vitamin c, manganese, and dietary fiber.
10. Pineapple leaves can be used to produce a strong and durable fiber called piña, which is often used to make traditional Filipino textiles.
