Pineapple Basics

Pineapple is packed with vitamin C and other antioxidants that may protect cells in your body.

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• Pineapple is a delicious tropical fruit that’s available year-round. It may have the best flavor from March to July.
• Choose a pineapple that feels heavy for its size and firm, but not hard. Look for green leaves and yellow color on the bottom
  half. Smell the base for a sweet aroma.
• Avoid pineapples with soft spots, brown leaves or a sour smell. They may be overripe.
• Whole pineapples are usually fresher and more affordable than pre-cut.
• Canned or frozen pineapple may also be budget-friendly options. Choose canned pineapple packed in 100% juice or water to avoid added sugars.

Store Well Waste Less

• Whole pineapples last 2 to 3 days at room temperature or up to 5 days refrigerated in a plastic bag.
• Store cut pineapple in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze pineapple pieces on a baking sheet
  until firm, then place in an airtight freezer container. For best quality, use within 6 months.

How to Prepare Pineapple:

1. Rinse and scrub the pineapple under cool running water before cutting.
2. Cut off the crown and base with a large knife and throw away or compost.
3. Stand the pineapple upright. Working top to bottom, slice off the skin. Then remove any pieces of skin left behind.
4. Cut the pineapple in half lengthwise. Halve each piece again to create four quarters.
5. Slice the firm core off each quarter.
6. Slice the soft fruit to use the way you want.

Enjoy Pineapple

Creative Uses for Pineapple

• Blend into smoothies or freeze for popsicles.
• Add to baked goods or savory dishes for a sweet twist.
• Make fruit salsa!

Try these pineapple recipes:

Pineapple Salsa

Tropical Carrot Salad

Kids Can!

When kids help make healthy food, they are more likely to try it. Show kids how to:

• rinse or scrub fresh pineapple and vegetables.
• measure and mix ingredients.