Pineapples are tropical fruits native to South America, where they have been cultivated for centuries. The pineapple is not a pine or an apple; it is technically a mass of individual berries fused to a central stalk. The word "pineapple" was first used in English in 1398 to describe the reproductive organs of conifer trees. It wasn't until the 17th century that European explorers used the term to describe the fruit we know today, due to its resemblance to pine cones.
Pineapples are now grown commercially in many tropical plantations, with Costa Rica, the Philippines, and Indonesia being leading producers. They grow as small shrubs, and it can take up to three years for a single plant to mature and produce just one pineapple per season. The flesh and juice are used in cuisines worldwide, enjoyed in snacks, desserts, and savory dishes. The wholesale price of fresh pineapple in the United States typically ranges from $1.65 to $3.03 USD per kg, or $0.75 to $1.38 USD per pound. While available year-round, pineapples are often at their peak in taste and quality between March and July.
