HOW TO PICK A PERFECT PINEAPPLE

When walking the produce section, do you scratch your head when faced with selecting a pineapple? How do you know when it’s ripe? How do you cut it? Where did it come from?

At Whole Foods Market, we have “pineapples with a purpose” that are a part of our Whole Trade® Guarantee. These pineapples set a sweeter standard for quality, environmental care and social responsibility.

Our Whole Trade Guarantee ensures that farms pay equitable wages and provide better working conditions — and that you enjoy the best-quality tropical treat, delivered at peak ripeness. Now that you know we have these delicious pineapples, how do you choose one and what do you do with it when you get home?

Pick a perfect pineapple

Repeat after me: external color does not indicate ripeness.

PineapplesThat’s right. Ripening halts after harvest, and ours are picked at their peak. So, even green pineapples are ripe. (Yes, green.) Instead, choose fresh-looking pineapples with green leaves and a firm shell. And when in doubt, ask a Team Member for a taste.

Store it smart

Great care was taken in growing your pineapple, so treat it well at home too. A whole pineapple stored at room temperature should be eaten within a few days, but you can refrigerate it to keep longer. Freshly cut pineapple can be frozen, but it may lose some flavor.

Slice it right

Here are five simple steps to help you get past that spiky shell.

Cut off the crown and bottom.

Stand pineapple on cut base. Cut away the peel in strips, deep enough to remove the eyes.

Cut pineapple in half lengthwise, then halve each half so you have four quarters.

Cut out and discard the core from the center of each quarter.

Cut into chunks and enjoy!