History/Origin

 The pineapple is native to southern Brazil and Paraguay.  It was spread by the Indians up through South and Central America to the West Indies before Columbus arrived.  In 1493, Columbus found pineapples on the island of Guadeloupe and brought some back to give to the Queen of Spain.  Hawaii is the only state in the U.S. in which pineapples are grown. Botanical Spanish “pina” + English “apple”  The Spanish saw the fruit’s resemblance to a pine cone, and first called it “Pine of the Indies.” The English called it an apple because of its tasty fruits.  Pineapple is a tropical plant and fruit—it needs lots of sun to grow.  As member of the Bromeliaceae family, it is the only bromeliad with edible fruit.  Each pineapple plant only produces one pineapple per year. Nutrition

 In 2005, extra sweet Maui Gold was introduced. It has three times more Vitamin C than other pineapples.  Pineapples are a super source of vitamin C and fiber—good for strength, healing and digestion.  They have more manganese than most fruits which promotes strong bones.  Pineapples have awesome antioxidants to help protect cells from damage.

Fun Facts  Pineapples were spread around the world on sailing ships that carried it for protection against scurvy.  The Bromelain enzyme in pineapples breaks down proteins, so pineapple or pineapple juice makes a good meat tenderizer.  Canned pineapple was first made in 1901 at a cannery in Hawaii founded by James Dole.  Fibers in pineapple leaves are used to make rope and cloth called pino.  A pineapple can weigh up to 20 pounds The average is between 2 to 5 pounds.