Kooky Kiwi

Put your thinking cap on! There will be questions to answer at the end.

A Slice of Kiwi History Kiwi is more than 700 years old. The history of kiwi began in the Yangtse (Yang-see) River valley in China.

The fruit was considered to be a delicacy by the court of the Khans or emperors in China who loved its delicious flavor and emerald green color.

Although kiwi came from China, a variety of kiwi spread to New Zealand in the 1900s.

Where did kiwi get it’s name? Kiwifruit is named after the national bird of New Zealand.

Have you seen kiwi growing around your town? Here is what it looks like. It grows on a vine like grapes.

Kiwi Nutrition Facts A study found that out of the 27 most commonly eaten fruits, kiwi is the most nutrient dense. Nutrient dense = Low in calories, high in nutrients Kiwifruit is one of nature's perfect foods. kiwifruit.org

Vitamin C Each serving of kiwi has nearly 2 ½ times the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. Vitamin C is proven to boost the immune system and fight the effects of stress and aging.

Potassium A serving of California kiwi has more potassium than a banana. Potassium helps your body maintain a healthy blood pressure and helps keep your muscles and nerves working properly.

Fiber Two kiwi contain more fiber than a bowl of bran cereal. A delicious way to keep your heart healthy, regulate digestion and lower blood cholesterol - a type of fat in your blood.

Compare the % daily value for vitamin C

Did You Know……. Kiwis are actually a berry? You can eat the skin! Try eating it whole like an apple! Kiwis contain an enzyme that acts as a natural meat tenderizer.

Doesn’t the kiwi look like the iris of an eye?

Test Your Knowledge Finish the sentence… 1.Each serving of kiwi has nearly 2 ½ times the recommended daily allowance of ________ __. vitamin C 2.A serving of kiwi has more________ than a banana? potassium 3. Two kiwi provide more fiber than what? A bowl of bran cereal 4.Nutrient dense means _____in calories and high in nutrients. low

Tasting Trio – Kiwi Kabobs Ingredients 1.6 gold kiwi 2.6 green kiwi 3.6 mozzarella sticks cut into 6 chunks Preparation 1.Pass out one coffee stick per student. 2.Assemble kabobs, slide one gold kiwi, one green kiwi and one piece of cheese.

Why Should You Eat Kiwi? Because just ½ cup is…. 1. An excellent source of vitamins C and K. 2. A good source of fiber. 3. A source of potassium, folate, beta carotene and lutein (loo-tee-in). Beta carotene and lutein are carotenoids with a vitamin A like structure, found mainly in yellow/orange colored fruits and vegetables. There are over 600 known carotenoids. Carotenoids are phytochemicals.

Another Awesome Job!! For CalFresh information, call Funded by USDA SNAP, an equal opportunity provider and employer. Visit for healthy tips. California Department of Public Health