Bet you didn’t realize this tropical fruit is actually in season during the Spring. March through June is when pineapples are traditionally available, however they have become available year round through commercial production. In the United States, pineapples are the second favorite tropical fruits, right after bananas. We bet you also didn’t know that pineapples are not just one fruit.

Find out all you need to know about using pineapples in your Power Juicer.

A pineapple is made up of many flowers whose individual fruitlets fuse together around a central core. Each fruitlet “eye” is represented by the rough spiny markings on the outer surface. They are usually green, brown or yellow in color. Beneath the scaly outer surface is the yellow fibrous flesh of the pineapple that holds most of the nutrients. At the top there is a crown of spiny blue-green leaves. A pineapple is a balance of sweet and tart tastes. Closer to the base there is more sugar content making is sweeter and more tender.

Pineapples were actually discovered by Europeans in 1492 on the Caribbean island of Guadalupe. They were unable to cultivate them in their homelands because of the pineapple’s need for a tropical climate. Because of their rarity and expense to successfully transport, they became a symbol of prestige and social class. All a person needed to do was display a pineapple as the centerpiece in the party and their guests knew they elite status in society. Today, in the United States, the only place that grows pineapples is Hawaii. Thailand, the Philippines, China, Brazil and Mexico also commercially grow them.

When you’re looking for the perfect pineapple to take home, remember that small or large does not really make a difference. You want the pineapple to feel heavy for its size. They should not have soft spots, bruises or darkened “eyes.” They stop ripening when they are picked. They should have a fragrant sweet smell at stem end. They should not smell musty, sour or fermented. A fully ripened pineapple will have the most antioxidants possible.

After you get your pineapple home, it can be left at room temperature for 1-2 days. This will allow the pineapple to soften and become even juicier. However, watch closely because they are very perishable. If you need to store it for than 2 days, we recommend wrapping it in a plastic bag and storing it in the refrigerator for a maximum of 3-5 days. Cut up pineapples should be stored in an airtight container with some pineapple juice to remain fresh. Freezing pineapples will alter their flavor.

So what’s so great about pineapples? They are an excellent source of manganese and vitamin C. They are also a good source of vitamin B1, copper, dietary fiber, and vitamin B6. Through vitamin C, you get antioxidant protection against free radicals that can harm you and immune support. The manganese and B1 in pineapple are good for energy production and antioxidant defense.

When using pineapple in your Power Juicer, it is best to but it up into manageable slices. The juice will taste better if you remove the rind. But this is your personal preference. It is also recommended to remove the top and bottom of the pineapple.