Pineapples come in a wide variety of colors, but most pineapples found in grocery stores are yellow. However, it is possible to find rare varieties of pineapples that are pink, red, purple, or even white. So why are pink pineapples considered so unique? Here is a quick overview of pink pineapple facts.
What causes pink pineapples?
The color of a pineapple is determined by the specific blend of flavonoid and carotenoid pigments found in the fruit. In most pineapples, the main pigments are beta-carotene and lycopene, which produce yellow and orange hues.
Pink pineapples get their unique color from the presence of additional pigments called anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are antioxidant compounds that also give foods like raspberries, cherries, and red cabbage their vivid reddish-purple hues.
So in essence, pink pineapples contain higher levels of anthocyanins in addition to the usual yellow and orange pigments.
Are pink pineapples genetically different?
Yes, pink pineapple varieties have slight genetic differences that allow for increased anthocyanin production.
Most commercially grown yellow pineapples are Smooth Cayenne, a hybrid cultivar developed in Hawaii. Smooth Cayenne pineapples do not naturally produce high levels of anthocyanins.
In contrast, many pink pineapple cultivars trace their lineage back to a variety called Red Spanish, which originated in South America. Red Spanish pineapples contain a genetic disposition toward anthocyanin expression.
Through additional selective breeding, pineapple growers have created several vividly pink pineapple varieties from Red Spanish stock, including Pinkglow and Rosé.
Which pineapple varieties can be pink?
Some specific pineapple varieties known to produce pink-hued fruits include:
- Pinkglow – Deep pink interior and exterior
- Rosé – Pale pink interior and exterior
- Red Spanish – Reddish interior with yellow rind
- Kona Sugarloaf – White flesh with pink ends
- Abacaxi – Purple variegated shell with yellow flesh
However, even in these varieties, the brightness and intensity of the pink color can vary based on climate, soil conditions, and ripeness.
Where are pink pineapples grown?
Some places around the world where pink pineapple cultivation is most prominent include:
- Hawaii – The tropical climate is ideal. Pinkglow and Kona Sugarloaf are popular local varieties.
- Australia – Major exporter of Pinkglow pineapples to Asia and Europe.
- Costa Rica – Top exporter of red-fleshed Red Spanish pineapples.
- Brazil – Large producer of Abacaxi pineapples with purple variegation.
- South Africa – Supplies European markets with Pinkglow and other pink fruits.
However, many other tropical and subtropical pineapple growers will produce small crops of pink pineapples interspersed with conventional harvests.
Are pink pineapples sweeter?
Many people claim that pink pineapples are sweeter and less acidic than their yellow counterparts. However, there is no firm scientific consensus on flavor differences.
In general, pineapple flavor is primarily determined by the balance of sugars and acids, not pigmentation. But anecdotal reports indicate that many pink varieties may be bred for low acid and high sugar.
One reason pink pineapples are perceived as sweeter could be due to lower acidity. The sweetness is more noticeable without excess tartness.
Are pink pineapples healthier?
Maybe, but it’s complicated. Here are some potential health impacts of compounds found in pink pineapples:
| Compound | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|
| Anthocyanins | Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects |
| Beta-carotene | Vitamin A precursor important for vision and immunity |
| Bromelain | Anti-inflammatory enzyme that aids digestion |
So in theory, the higher anthocyanin content could provide more antioxidant activity. But yellow pineapples also contain beneficial carotenoids, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.
Overall, pineapples are healthy regardless of color. No single variety can be designated as healthier.
Why are pink pineapples expensive?
Here are some reasons why pink pineapples typically cost more than conventional yellow pineapples in stores:
- Specialty crop – They are not mass produced like Smooth Cayenne pineapples, so supply is limited.
- Delicate – Pink pineapple plants require more labor-intensive cultivation and harvesting.
- Short shelf life – Pink pineapple color fades faster, limiting transport and storage options.
- Exotic appeal – Vibrant pink color is desirable for high-end markets willing to pay a premium.
- Imported – Most pink pineapples are flown long distances to reach consumer markets, adding to costs.
In summary, costs are higher due to the challenges of growing pink pineapple varietals combined with high demand for their novelty value.
Are pink pineapple leaves and skin safe to eat?
No, you should avoid eating the leaves and tough outer skin of pink pineapples, just like regular pineapples. The leaves and skin contain small amounts of toxins that can cause nausea, rashes, or mouth irritation if consumed in large quantities.
The edible portion is the soft inner flesh and core, which are safe and nutritious. But the rind and spiky leaves should always be discarded.
Conclusion
In the end, pink pineapples are simply natural color variants of the familiar tropical fruit. They are not necessarily healthier or tastier than conventional types.
The pink coloration comes from higher levels of pigments called anthocyanins. But all fresh pineapple contains beneficial compounds like vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain.
Specialty pink pineapple cultivars will likely remain rare and expensive compared to the ubiquitous yellow varieties. But their unique appeal among consumers and exotic fruit lovers ensures pink pineapples are here to stay!