Pineapples in August: Out of Season
August — no local pineapples. Season approaching.
When Are Pineapples in Season in Australia?
Australian pineapples are grown primarily in Queensland's Sunshine Coast hinterland (Yandina, Bli Bli) and are available most of the year, with peak quality in December through March. The Bethonga Gold and Smooth Cayenne are the main Australian varieties — sweeter and more aromatic than imported alternatives when bought in season.
How to Pick a Ripe Pineapple
- Pull a leaf test: Tug a leaf from the centre of the crown — if it comes out easily, the pineapple is ripe.
- Smell the base: The strongest indicator — a ripe pineapple smells intensely tropical and sweet at the bottom. No smell = not ripe.
- Colour: Look for gold colouring spreading up from the base. A fully green pineapple is unripe; a fully golden one is at peak or past peak.
- Firm, not soft: The exterior should yield very slightly to firm pressure. Soft patches mean overripe sections.
- Heavy for size: More juice = heavier weight.
Important: Pineapple Does Not Ripen After Cutting
Unlike most fruit, pineapples do not continue to ripen after being harvested. The sugar content is fixed at harvest. Leaving a pineapple on the counter only softens it and makes it ferment — it won't get sweeter. Buy ripe pineapples and eat them promptly.
Pineapple Nutrition
One cup of pineapple chunks (165g): 82 calories, 22g carbs, 2.3g fibre, vitamin C (88% DV), manganese (109% DV), vitamin B6 and bromelain. Bromelain is a unique enzyme with significant anti-inflammatory properties and is used medicinally for reducing swelling and improving digestion.
Try These Pineapple Recipes
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