Pineapple 101

 Pineapple is packed with vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that aid in immune health and digestion. It is a great addition to any meal or snack. This week our local grocers are featuring this sweet treat at a discounted rate. 

Add pineapple to smoothies, pizza, stir-fry, teriyaki, grilled meats and other recipes. Pineapple adds sweetness and flavor to all of your favorite recipes.

Making the right selection isn't always as easy. Check out these great tips for successful selection:

1. Color: The more yellow the pineapple, the riper it is. Overly ripe pineapples are transitioning from yellow to brown and becoming soft, which translates to mushy overly sweet fruit.

2. Scent: Smell is a useful way to interpret pineapple ripeness. The best area for assessment is the base of the fruit. A leafy smell depicts an unripe fruit while a vinegar like scent suggests overripeness.

3. Texture/Feel: Determining ripeness of a pineapple can be deceiving. Assessing the feel of your fruit can determine the inner expected texture. Aim for a firm fruit that is slightly soft. Pay special attention to the base of the fruit, this area ripens fastest so it is the best indicator of ripeness.

Incorporate this fruit into your weekly menu for increased immune support and digestion.