Kiwifruit, or just “kiwi” as most of us call it, is one of those fruits you probably grab on the regular without giving it too much thought. Sure, it’s tangy, delicious, and a perfect addition to your fruit salad, but there’s way more to this fuzzy little fruit than meets the eye. So, let’s dive into some fun, little-known facts about kiwifruit that’ll make you appreciate it even more – especially when it’s fresh for Spring at Alexanders!
1. It’s Not From New Zealand
I know what you’re thinking – “Wait, what?” Yes, even though kiwifruit is pretty much associated with New Zealand these days (thanks to those clever Kiwis), it actually hails from China. In fact, it was originally called the Chinese gooseberry. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that kiwifruit made its way to New Zealand, where farmers gave it a bit of a rebrand. The fruit was named after New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi, and the rest is history!
2. It’s Loaded with Vitamin C (More Than Oranges!)
When it comes to vitamin C, most people instantly think of oranges. But guess what? Kiwifruit actually packs in more of the good stuff! Just one medium-sized kiwi contains about 70 milligrams of vitamin C, which is more than your average orange. That means it’s great for giving your immune system a boost, helping you fight off colds, and keeping your skin looking fab. So next time you’re feeling a bit run down, reach for a kiwi – your body will love you for it.
3. The Skin is Totally Edible
Alright, this one might surprise (or gross out) a few of you, but yes – you can actually eat the skin of a kiwifruit. It’s completely edible and full of fibre, making it a super nutritious addition to your diet. The skin has more antioxidants and nutrients than the flesh itself, which means you’re leaving behind a whole lot of goodness if you peel it away. If the fuzziness freaks you out a bit, try rubbing the kiwi under cold water to soften it up or opt for the smoother golden kiwifruit variety.
4. It’s a Natural Sleep Aid
Struggling to catch some Z’s? Kiwifruit might just be the natural sleep remedy you never knew you needed. Some studies suggest that eating a couple of kiwis an hour before bed could help improve the quality of your sleep. Why? It’s thought that the fruit’s high serotonin and antioxidant content might help regulate your sleep cycle. Plus, its vitamin C content helps reduce stress – always a good thing when you’re trying to wind down after a long day.
So there you have it – four facts about kiwifruit that you probably didn’t know. Whether you’re munching on them for a vitamin C boost, eating them skin and all, or looking for a natural way to sleep better, kiwifruit is clearly doing more than just adding some green to your fruit salad! Fill your chilly bin (or not) with kiwifruit at Alexanders, 12 Chester St., Oakleigh! Say g’day to the crew!