Now in Stores Nationwide: Finding the Perfect Pineapple Using Your Senses
Taiwan cultivates over 20 pineapple varieties, with this year's projected harvest spanning 6,988 hectares and yielding an expected 353,023 metric tons. More than 80% of production is the Tainung No. 17 variety (popularly known as Golden Diamond pineapple), which reaches peak season from March to June. Following January and February's consecutive cold fronts, the harvest has been delayed by approximately two weeks. Now, with rising temperatures, fruit quality is steadily improving.
For the perfect Golden Diamond pineapple, look for plump fruit with vibrant skin. When tapped gently, ripe pineapples produce a clear, resonant sound similar to a drum. The best fruits will have a subtle, sweet aroma. Color selection depends on weather conditions – during cooler periods, fully yellow fruit offers optimal flavor, while in warmer weather, it's better to choose fruits with slightly green exteriors as they will ripen more gradually, giving you time to enjoy them at their peak.
The AFA notes that demand for fresh pineapples remains strong across Taiwan. They're readily available in hypermarkets, convenience stores, wholesale markets, traditional markets, and online platforms. This year, Carrefour has pioneered selling crownless fresh pineapples, reducing kitchen waste for consumers. PX Mart and RT-Mart complement their fresh and pre-cut offerings by periodically inviting skilled pineapple cutters to stores to provide on-the-spot cutting services. FamilyMart and 7-Eleven continue offering convenient pre-cut options, with 7-Eleven introducing bagged “OPEN-chan Traceable Golden Diamond Pineapples” for the first time, reducing plastic waste compared to conventional packaging while supporting locally grown pineapples.
A Nutritional Powerhouse with Endless Possibilities
Golden Diamond pineapples are treasured for their juicy flesh, fine texture, and tender edible core. With an ideal balance of sweetness and acidity, they deliver exceptional flavor. In recent years, they've become Taiwan's most exported fruit, gaining particular popularity in Japan.
Rich in essential nutrients including vitamin C, calcium, and potassium, pineapples have expanded beyond fresh consumption into various processed products, beverages, and desserts. Pineapple cakes –a must-have souvenir for Taiwan visitors–and refreshing pineapple-based tea drinks have increased demand for processed pineapple products, providing a stable income for farmers.
At the event, Fubon Guardians cheerleaders Lemon and Chestnut demonstrated how to make "pineapple tanghulu" (candied fruit skewers)–a simple recipe that families can easily create at home using either fresh or pre-cut pineapples. This activity offers a perfect opportunity for food education and family bonding. The AFA encourages consumers to purchase fresh Taiwanese pineapples or related products at retail outlets nationwide or directly from the Farmers' Market at Taipei Hope Plaza, where farm-fresh pineapples arrive daily straight from production areas.
