Fruiten

Fruiten refers to the mature ovary and surrounding tissues of flowering plants that develop after fertilization and contain seeds. In everyday use, fruits are edible, often sweet or tart, and consumed fresh or processed into products such as juices, jams, or dried snacks. Botanically, the fruit protects seeds and aids dispersal.

Fruits are categorized by their development from the flower into simple, aggregate, and multiple fruits. Simple fruits derive from a single ovary of one flower; aggregate fruits form from multiple ovaries of a single flower; multiple fruits develop from a cluster of flowers. Examples include the apple (simple), strawberry (aggregate), and pineapple (multiple).

Culinary usage often emphasizes flavor and texture; many fruits are eaten raw, used in desserts, or added to savory dishes to provide acidity or sweetness. They are distinct from vegetables in common language, though botanically the distinction can be blurred.

Nutritionally, fruits are typically high in water, fiber, vitamins (notably vitamin C and folate), and minerals, while typically low in fat. They contribute to hydration and overall diet quality but vary in sugar content.

Production and distribution: Fruits are grown worldwide, in temperate and tropical regions. Commercial orchards and small farms produce a wide range of species; harvest and post-harvest handling, including temperature control and controlled atmosphere storage, aim to preserve ripeness and extend shelf life. Ethylene is a key hormone used to regulate ripening.

Environmental and economic significance: Fruit farming supports livelihoods and rural economies but raises considerations regarding water use, pesticides, pollinator health, and biodiversity.