What nutrients are only available in the fruits we eat?

Vitamin C ascorbic Acid Nutritional Value Vitamin C ascorbic Acid

Additional Nutrients Vitamin A Natural carbohydrate - fructose Minerals Low protein Low fat

Fruits Market forms Fresh Frozen Canned Dried

Summer Fruits Berries Cherries Grapes Melons Peaches Nectarines Plums Pears

Fruit that has a central pit enclosing a single seed Drupes Fruit that has a central pit enclosing a single seed Examples: cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, apricots

Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, tangerines Winter Fruits Apples Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, tangerines

Fleshy fruit with many seeds rather than one single seed Pome Fleshy fruit with many seeds rather than one single seed Examples: apple, pear, quince

Tropical fruits Named for climatic conditions where they are grown. Cannot tolerate frost Includes; figs, dates, kiwis, mangos, bananas, pomegranates, guava, star fruit, passion fruit

Purchasing fruits Some fruits available all year round: bananas, apples, pears, grapes Quality and Price remain the same Seasonal: peaches, plums, mangos, berries Have a specific growing season and are plentiful during this time with high quality and lower price

Grading fruits USDA ( United States Department of Agriculture)- has quality grades in place for fruits Grade is determined by size, color, shape, texture and defects U. S. Extra Fancy - best quality U.S. Fancy Most often purchased in industry U. S. No.1 U.S. No. 2 U. S. No 3

Storing fruits Store ripe fruits (but not bananas) at 41 degrees Best if stored in own refrigerator away from vegetables Apples, bananas, melons, avocados emit Ethylene Gas which causes fruit to ripen. However, also causes spoilage in fruits that are already ripe. Keep dry, excessive moisture causes fruit to spoil easily Wash fruits right before using If fruit needs to ripen store at room temperature