The kiwifruit is a little fruit holding great surprises. The most common species of kiwifruit is Actinidia deliciosa, commonly known as Hayward kiwi.

Kiwifruit is an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin K as well as a very good source of copper and dietary fiber. It is also a good source of vitamin E, potassium, folate, and manganese.

FLAVOUR

The flavour of the Kiwi is distinctive but hard to pin down. Its tart / sweet to acid - somewhat that of a gooseberry with a suggestion of strawberry.

SIZE AND WEIGHT

The kiwi fruit is the size of a large hen's egg 5-8 cm and about 4.5 - 5.5 in diameter and weighs up to 125g.

SHAPE

The oval, oblong or ovoid fruit is up to 2 1/2 - 3 inches long with russet - brown skin densely covered with short, stiff brown hairs.

SKIN COLOUR AND CHARACTERISTIC

The brown and hairy exterior of this egg shaped fruit doesn't look very promising however the inside in a very different story.

FLESH COLOUR AND CHARACTERISTIC

The flesh is firm fully ripe, glistening bright green succulent sweet centre from which radiate many pale lines. Between these white lines are scattered minute dark purple or nearly black seeds, unnoticeable in eating.

PICKING PERIOD

Kiwi is harvested between September and October and is marketable from November to April, although is reality it is on the market all year round because thanks to modern methods of conversation the Kiwi last longer.

AVAILABILITY

The Kiwi fruit is available all year round.

DISTINCTIVE FEATURES

Kiwi is a rich source of vitamin C (1.5 times United States DRI per 100 grams) and vitamin K, and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin E.

STORAGE

Kiwi storage can last up to 2 months if stored correctly. Pick the fruit while they are still hard and store immediately in the refrigerator in a vented plastic bag. To ripen the fruit, remove them from the fridge and place them in a vented plastic bag with an apple or banana at room temperature to fasten ripening. They will also ripen on their own at room temperature however it will take a little longer.

HOW TO ENJOY THEM

Kiwi fruit can be used in many different ways. Try them sliced and used in puddings such as pavlova, blended in a smoothie, use a rub or even in a marinade for meat or squid. Mix sliced Kiwi with oranges, pineapple together to make a chutney that can be served as a accompaniment with chicken or fish. a simple way to add something different to your salads too.