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Fun Facts

A pineapple isn't a pinecone or an apple! So why the name? Because it looked just like a pinecone to the European explorers who found this sweet, juicy fruit on Guadalupe island back in the 1400s. Pineapples are in the berry family and are native to South America, where they are called ananas or piñas. This big berry used to hitch a ride on trading ships to help sailors prevent scurvy on long journeys. Pineapples are formed from up to 200 fruity flowers that join together to create one big pineapple. With their majestic tops (also called crowns) and elegant exteriors, pineapples have inspired artists all over the world, and are still used as welcoming symbols on door mats, door handles and other decorative objects.

Star Power

At its very core, the pineapple is a powerhouse of the proteolytic enzyme bromelain, an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory, tumor-fighting and digestion-healing abilities. Pineapple is also home to the trace mineral manganese and B vitamin thiamin, both essential for keeping the power on in our energy- producing mitochondria. Plus there's lots of vitamin C to boost the immune system, and fiber for a healthy digestive system. Did you know that there's more sugar content near the base of the pineapple, which makes it sweeter and more tender?

Quick Preps

PREPARE:

1. Pick a ripe pineapple. It should be yellow and smell sweet.
2. Slice off both ends of the pineapple, turn on one end and cut in half. Cut each half in half.
3. Turn each ¼ wedge on its end.
4. Slice off the tip of the edge, which is the core.
5. Cut each ¼ wedge in half again.
6. Place each wedge on its end and cut off the skin. You should have 8 spears in all.
7. Cut each pineapple spear into ½ inch chunks.

• Eat pineapple as a snack or as a sweet dessert after dinner.
• Top pineapple with coconut cream or yogurt and fresh mint for dessert.
• Add pineapple to your pizza!