Pineapple ( Annasi )

Pineapples have exceptional juiciness and a vibrant tropical flavor that balances the tastes of sweet and tart. They are second only to bananas as America"s favorite tropical fruit. Although the season for pineapple runs from March through June, they are available year-round in local markets.

Pineapple, Ananas comosus, belongs to the Bromeliaceae family, from which one of its most important health-promoting compounds, the enzyme bromelain, was named. The Spanish name for pineapple, pina, and the root of its English name, reflects the fruit"s visual similarity to the pine-cone.

Pineapples are a composite of many flowers whose individual fruitlets fuse together around a central core. Each fruitlet can be identified by an "eye," the rough spiny marking on the pineapple"s surface. Pineapples have a wide cylindrical shape, a scaly green, brown or yellow skin and a regal crown of spiny, blue-green leaves and fibrous yellow flesh. The area closer to the base of the fruit has more sugar content and therefore a sweeter taste and more tender texture.


Health Benefits

Regular consumption of pineapples provides protection against Macular Degeneration

Manganese and Thiamine (Vitamin B1) present in ample amounts in the fruit are essential for energy production and antioxidant defenses

Pineapple also provides antioxidant protection and immune support to the body

It also has potential anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits

Pineapple Strengthens Bones- The fruit has ample amounts of manganese, which is a essential mineral needed by the body to build bones and connective tissues. Including pineapple in one"s daily diet helps develop stronger bones in the young and helps in the strengthening the bones of the elderly

Pineapple is Good for Colds and Coughs- Taking vitamin C, when suffering from cold and cough is often advised by the doctors. Pineapples are a rich source of vitamin C, and are extremely beneficial in suppressing coughs and loosen the mucus.



Pineapple nutrition

Pineapple is high in fiber. Pineapples also contain good amounts of vitamin C, potassium, manganese, and a digestive enzyme called bromelain.

Calories in Pineapple:

1 cup diced fresh pineapple = 76 calories

Major Growing Areas in Sri Lanka

Kurunagala , Gampaha , Badhulla , Puttlam , Moneragala , Colombo and Gale.