Food Tasting: June 2022

Kiwifruit

Kiwifruits are small round shaped fruits. They are fuzzy and brown on the outside with a bright green inside that has tiny black seeds in the middle.


Originating in China over 700 years ago, where it is called Yangtao, kiwifruit were first shipped to the United States in 1962. They were renamed Kiwifruit after New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi.


Kiwifruit is packed with Vitamin C and E, two antioxidants that support a healthy body. This small but mighty fruit is also packed with potassium, which supports proper functioning of the muscles, nerves and a healthy heartbeat. Including kiwi in your meals and snacks can also support a healthy digestive system; helping individuals reach the recommended 25-38g of fiber daily, depending on age and gender.


Similar to grapes, this fruit grows on vines, and is available year-round at most local grocery stores, in the produce section. California produces about 98% of the kiwifruit in the United States. With more than a whopping 400 varieties, the Hayward is the most popular in the United States.


The kiwifruit can be eaten raw with its skin on or peeled. Kiwifruit is a great addition to fruit salads, salsa, cereals, smoothies or fruit infused water. MyPlate recommends that most individuals eat 1-2 cups of fruit daily. So, that means it would take about 2-3 kiwifruits to count as a serving of fruit.


Now that you know how amazing this fuzzy fruit is, how will you try it?

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