- Pineapples have two parts, the outer shell and the inner fruit. The top of a pineapple features a collection of over 20 pointed leaves that grow out of the stem. A hard outer case on the pineapple protects the fruit that grows inside; it is actually composed of tiny flowers that hummingbirds like to feed on.
- Pineapples are primarily used as a source of food. The fruit is carved out of the middle and then can be eaten on its own or used in a variety of recipes. Some of the most popular recipes are pineapple upside-down cake, fruit cocktail and as a flavoring technique on the outside of a ham. Ham and pineapple are commonly associated, and featured on Hawaiian pizza.
The unique look also makes the outer shell of a pineapple an excellent table decoration. A hallowed out pineapple can be filled with fruit or juice, and pineapples can even be worn as hat decorations.
Like many fruits, pineapples can be squeezed for their juice. - Pineapples originated in South America, specifically Paraguay and Brazil. The English word "pineapple" comes from the fruit's resemblance to a pine cone. It was actually Christopher Columbus who exported the fruit to Spain, and from there it spread all over the world.
- Today, pineapple is mainly exported from large farms in southeast Asia, Hawaii, the Philippines and Brazil. The United States grows pineapples in California and Florida, but the pineapple grows best in tropical locations and larger crops can be grown there. Pineapples exported to the United States are cheapest in a can, because the ripening process is long and must be precisely timed in order to enjoy the fruit.
- When purchasing fresh pineapple, cleaning is essential due to diseases that may be found on the fruit, such as wilt disease. Wilt disease is caused by mealy bugs that are found around and even in the pineapple. Farms try to ensure clean and safe fruit, but proper cleaning at home is recommended as an extra precaution.
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