Pineapples

Pineapples, native to the tropical regions of central and eastern South America (southern Brazil and Paraguay), first caught the attention of European explorers in the mid-17th century. They were immediately noted for their alternately sweet and tart flavors. Columbus discovered the fruit on the island of Guadaloupe and brought the fruit back to Spain. From there it spread easily across Europe. The pineapple then reached England in 1660. http://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/pineapple.html It is now grown in Hawai'i, and is usually associated with the state. The Dole Plantation is located on the big island and is a vast field of pineapples that covers a great deal of Hawai'i. Today, pineapples are used in fruit salads, as marinades, and are a frequent pizza topping.

Health Benefits

Pineapples are high in manganese, B vitamins, and Vitamin C. Studies also show that enzymes in pineapples (specifically bromelian) may have strong anti-inflammatory effects, though no products with pineapple enzymes have been approved to treat ulcers or other inflammatory diseases. To utilize bromelian, pineapple should be eaten alone, or the enzyme will end up digesting the other food. It can help with sore throats, acute sinusitis, arthritis, and gout. The manganese in pineapples promotes energy and antioxidant defenses. http://health.learninginfo.org/nutrition-facts/pineapple.htm

Modern Pineapples

Though pineapples are indigenous only to South America, most pineapples consumed in the United States and Europe come from hybrids grown in Hawaii. This variety of pineapple is known as the Smooth Cayenne pineapple, known for its high sugar and acidity content. Other kinds of pineapple include: Hilo, Kona Sugarloaf, Natal Queen, Pernambuco, and Red Spanish. http://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/pineapple.html