The pineapple is native to Central and South America, but is now closely associated with Hawaii, its leading producer. The pineapple got its English name because of its resemblance to the pine cone. It is actually a multiple fruit, made of coalesced berries. Pineapple has a juicy, tropical flavor that is both sweet and tart, and is eaten plain, in salads and desserts, and even cooked.
Pineapple is an excellent source of Vitamin A, an antioxidant, and Manganese, an essential dietary mineral. These nutrients offer health benefits that may include reduced risk of heart disease, hypertension, cancer, and other degenerative diseases. To provide additional nutritional benefits, pineapple can be added to processed foods, beverages, desserts, and other food products.