Florida Tropical Fruits
History
Tropical fruits have been around for ages. The Chinese have harvested lychees for thousands of years. Carambolas have been popular in Malaysia for centuries. The papaya was enjoyed through-out Latin America, long before Columbus arrived in the New World. While the general public may just now be discovering tropical fruits, these delicacies have been staples in many ethnic markets for generations. America, the most diverse nation in the world, is made up of countless cultures, cultures that have used tropical fruits in their cooking for generations. Warm oceans surround the southern tip of Florida, producing a tropical climate ideal for the growth of tropical fruits. Many of these fruits are not grown anywhere else in the continental United States.
Nutrition
Florida's Tropical Fruits are an exciting and delicious way for health-conscious consumers to get their daily intake of fruits and vegetables. They're also an excellent source of many essential nutrients, especially Vitamin C. A proper diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and dairy products, coupled with lots of exercise, can keep you on the road to good health -- naturally and deliciously.
Handling
All tropical fruit is hand-picked and hand-packed. The reason for this is that each fruit has to be inspected by an individual. Careful handling is paramount. It begins in the field and must continue through to the sale. Ideally, by the time they are purchased, tropical fruits are handled only three times: once during picking, once during packing and once during display. Fruits have to be picked at precisely the right time, at the right stage of development so the consumer can get the best product in the market place. For peak freshness and flavor, tropical fruits should be made available to consumers as soon after harvest as possible.
For More Information
When in Florida, visit the unique areas where tropical fruits are grown. For more information on enjoying this Florida experience contact:
Tropical Fruit Growers of South Florida, Inc.
18710 S.W. 288 Street
Homestead, FL 33030
(305) 401-1502
Email:
Fruit and Spice Park
24801 S.W. 187 Avenue
Homestead, FL 33031
(305) 667-1651
Fairchild Tropical Garden
Tropical Fruit Program
10901 Old Cutler Road
Miami, FL 33156
(305) 666-4019
University of Florida
Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
Cooperative Extension Service
18710 S.W. 288 Street
Homestead, FL 33030
(305) 248-3311
