Pineapples

20th December 2018:

Local Malawian pineapples grow everywhere, but they are tiny and sour.

This year we have introduced about 100 of a new variety to the Farm in Lusangazi. They are big and so sweet. Wow. And they are growing on possible the worst patch of ground we have at the farm.

I got the first ripened one when I was there earlier this month and it was so tasty and reminded one I had in Hawaii a million years ago.

They are a real winner and the good news is that each one will sprout up to four new plants for sowing out each year

All the kids on the farm will seriously increase their Vitamin C intake soon and of course our adults as well.

Pineapples are low in calories but have an incredibly impressive nutrient profile.

One cup (5.8 ounces or 165 grams) of pineapple chunks contains the following :

Calories: 82.5
Fat: 1.7 grams
Protein: 1 gram
Carbs: 21.6 grams
Fiber: 2.3 grams
Vitamin C: 131% of the RDI
Manganese: 76% of the RDI
Vitamin B6: 9% of the RDI
Copper: 9% of the RDI
Thiamin: 9% of the RDI
Folate: 7% of the RDI
Potassium: 5% of the RDI
Magnesium: 5% of the RDI
Niacin: 4% of the RDI
Pantothenic acid: 4% of the RDI
Riboflavin: 3% of the RDI
Iron: 3% of the RDI
Pineapples also contain trace amounts of vitamins A and K, phosphorus, zinc and calcium.

Certainly worth growing and a possible enterprise item for our College Girl Students