California Kiwifruit Day is celebrated on February 2 annually. The day is celebrated to appreciate the amazing health benefits of eating kiwifruit. Once, Kiwifruits were native to China. They are also recognized as Chinese gooseberries, or ‘yang tao.’ Kiwifruits have a sharp and sweet flavor which is rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C and dietary fiber. They aid in improving the heart health, brain, eyes, and digestive system. Similarly, they are also good sources of iron, carotenoids, and antioxidants. To appreciate its several benefits, we celebrate one of the tastiest and healthiest fruits in the world on this day.
History of California Kiwifruit Day
Fruits have been one of the oldest sources of sweet taste for humans and also one of the good sources of vitamins and minerals. In the past, fruits were not grown or stored like now. Our ancestors lacked the technology or did not have any idea about how to manage fruits, so fruits were a rare delicacy — they had to consume them while fresh. Similarly, the situation was the same even in the medieval periods. The fruit we are talking about in this particular scenario is the kiwifruit.
The kiwifruit was first discovered in China. By observing historical records we know that fruit usage is as far back as the twelfth century. But after that fruit started to be consumed fresh mostly for medical purposes. Kiwi was typically now cultivated or bred. ‘Yang Tao’ is the Chinese name of this fruit.
The usually stagnant lives of kiwifruit drastically changed overnight when they were exported to New Zealand under the name Chinese gooseberry. The fruit changed its name over the next few decades and travelled worldwide.
Today, kiwifruit is a widely popular fruit among the general public. Its tasty interior is also rich in healthy nutrients. In 1935, California’s farmers imported kiwifruit vines in massive quantities and started cultivating them. Today, America is the biggest consumer of kiwifruit. Not only in America, but people all over the world love it and there is even a special day dedicated to these tasty fruits.
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Timeline of California Kiwifruit Day
| 1100 — 1200 (The First Description of the Kiwifruit) | The first description of kiwifruits appears in records during the era of the Song Dynasty in China. |
| 1906 (Introduction to New Zealand) | Kiwifruits reach the shores of New Zealand under the name Chinese gooseberry. |
| 1959 (Chinese Gooseberry to Kiwi) | Exporters from New Zealand begin using the name kiwifruit, after their national bird, the kiwi. |
| 1970 (The Spread of Kiwifruits in California) | Counties in California like the Kern and Butte grow kiwifruits on more than 50 acres of land. |
11 Interesting Facts About Kiwifruits
- Kiwifruit is native to China and was initially called “Yang Tao.”
- Countries like China, Italy, and New Zealand are the highest kiwifruit producers worldwide.
- Kiwifruit belongs to the genus Actinidia which has more than 50 species. Besides the traditional green (Actinidia deliciosa) and golden kiwifruit (A. chinensis), other varieties like red kiwifruit and baby kiwifruit have been developed and grown in various regions.
- Kiwifruit keeps ripening after it’s picked, so it’s usually sold when still somewhat firm.
- In New Zealand, it was renamed “kiwifruit” after the kiwi bird, as both have similar brown, fuzzy exterior.
- Initially, Kiwifruit used to be known as the “Chinese gooseberry” before its name change.
- Kiwifruit is a great source of dietary fibre, which helps in digestion, especially if you consume it with the peel.
- Kiwifruit provides more vitamin C per serving than most other fruits (almost three times the amount of Vitamin C in oranges).
- The high Vitamin C and low tannin levels in kiwifruit are believed to be why the cut fruit does not develop the typical browning reaction that occurs in most other fruits.
- Kiwifruit contains serotonin, which might help in regulating sleep patterns and improve sleep quality.
- Kiwifruit is on the Environmental Working Group’s “Clean Fifteen” list, indicating it has one of the least pesticide-contaminated fruits.
Conclusion
California Kiwifruit Day is celebrated on February 2. The day observed to recognize the several health benefits of kiwifruit. It is originally known as the “Chinese gooseberry.” This fruit offers vitamin C, dietary fibre, and antioxidants, contributing to improved heart health, digestive function, and overall immunity.
Kiwifruit was once a rare delicacy in ancient China, which gained huge popularity and became a fruit cultivated widely in California and beyond. The day not only celebrates its delicious taste but also highlights its nutritional benefits and versatility in various dishes.
California Kiwifruit Day invites everyone to honour and incorporate this energised fruit into their diets, promoting health and wellness through its remarkable properties.
Frequently Ask Question
Where did kiwifruits originate?
Kiwifruits are originally native to China, where they were known as ‘yang tao’ before being introduced to other regions.
Why are kiwifruits called Chinese gooseberries?
The name “Chinese gooseberry” was used due to the fruit’s sharp and sweet flavor, reflecting its origins in China.
When were kiwifruits introduced to California?
Kiwifruits were introduced to California in 1935 when farmers began cultivating them.
Are kiwifruits beneficial for sleep?
Yes, studies indicate that kiwifruits can improve the quality of sleep, making them a good choice to eat before bedtime.
What are some activities to celebrate California Kiwifruit Day?
Activities include eating kiwifruits, learning how to farm them, and sharing them with family as healthy snacks.
Which countries are the top producers of kiwifruit?
China is the leading producer of kiwifruits, followed by Italy and New Zealand.
What is the potassium content in kiwifruit?
Gold-fleshed kiwifruit contains more potassium compared to the green variety, according to the U.S.DA.
Is the skin of the kiwifruit edible?
Yes, the skin of kiwifruits is edible and rich in fibre, vitamin B9, and vitamin E.
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