piñas

Piñas refers to the pineapple, a tropical fruit of the genus Ananas, most commonly Ananas comosus. The pineapple is a bromeliad native to South America, with origins traced to regions that include parts of present-day Paraguay, southern Brazil, and northern Argentina. It was domesticated by Indigenous peoples before European contact and spread by trade to the Caribbean and other tropical regions. The fruit forms from a cluster of fused berries around a central core, producing a single large head with a rough, scaly rind that changes from green to yellow as it ripens. The flesh is yellow, juicy, and typically balances sweetness with acidity, while a fibrous central core is often present. The fruit contains bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, along with vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fiber.

Cultivation and production are concentrated in tropical regions. Major producers include Costa Rica, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and India. Pineapples are usually propagated by suckers or cuttings from the plant, grown in well-drained soils with warm temperatures and abundant sunlight. Harvest occurs when the fruit develops full color, aroma, and a fresh-tentative firmness. Commercial glasshouse production also exists in some areas.

Uses and nutrition: Pineapples are consumed fresh or processed into canned fruit, juice, and various culinary products. They are widely used in desserts, savory dishes, and beverages. Nutritionally, pineapple is a source of vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fiber, and its bromelain enzyme is noted for potential digestive and tenderizing effects.