Why Are Kiwis Fuzzy And Is There A Hairless Kiwi?
Are you a fan of kiwi? Do you enjoy adding them to your fruit salads or desserts? Have you ever wondered why kiwis have such a fuzzy appearance? Although kiwis are not the only fruit with hair, their mane is much more visible than the edible fluff of a peach. So, why are kiwis so hairy?
What Gives Kiwis Their Fuzzy Appearance?
Kiwis are round, green fruits with thick skin known as green kiwifruit. They are native to New Zealand and belong to the gooseberry family. Kiwi fruits are rich in vitamin C and fiber and are available year-round. They are usually eaten raw but can also be cooked. Kiwi fruits are covered with thick, tough, and prickly skin that gives them their fuzzy appearance. The reason behind this fuzziness is that they have a thick layer of hair called lanugo covering their skin. This is a natural defense mechanism against bacteria and other pathogens. It also helps keep the skin warm and moist. The hair keeps the humidity inside the kiwi and draws humidity to the air, protecting the fruit from plagues that might try to reach the real skin of the kiwi.
The hair on kiwis is a type of hair that grows from the skin of the fruit. It is usually found in the outermost layer of the fruit. Kiwi hairs are very soft and flexible but also absorb a lot of water, which is why they attract moisture. Kiwis have more or less hair depending on the amount of moisture they need to extract from the air to defend against the strong sun. In general, hair on plants is a defense mechanism, and plants develop extra hairs to react to severe conditions. The hair on kiwis retains the air at the same temperature around the skin, which means that the plants will have less influence on unexpected cold or heat waves.
Kiwi's hairs also protect the fruit from pests. Insects find it harder to reach the surface of the skin and burrow. Hair frequently causes an uncomfortable feel for animals, both from the hair texture and the numerous hair abrasions. In combination with kiwi’s acidic juice, these little wounds and scrapes make it less likely for a second feeding. Despite kiwis being sour, they contain an unusually high amount of vitamin C.
Is It Possible to Eat Kiwi Skin?
Kiwi fruit skin contains a substance called pectin, which is a type of fiber found in plants. Pectin helps to keep the fruit firm by making it less juicy. Kiwi skin also contains vitamin C, which is good for your immune system. However, due to the hairy texture of the kiwi skin, we do not advocate eating it. Besides the mouthfeel and probable scrapes, it is just not worth eating the skin when it is hairy. If you insist on eating the skin, try to massage it with a pin to remove almost every hair or scratch them off with a blade. Kiwis may also be found that are not so hairy and, hence, simpler to consume.
Not Every Kiwi is Hairy Enough
While Hayward, Blake, and Saanichton 12 are the most common hairy kiwis found in stores, other kiwi types are also available, although they are less frequent. These include the golden kiwi, the tough kiwi, the purple kiwi (which is not entirely purple), and the silver wine.
In conclusion, kiwis are fuzzy because they have a thick layer of hair called lanugo covering their skin, which is a natural defense mechanism against bacteria and other pathogens. Kiwi hair retains the air at the same temperature around the skin, which means that the plants will have less influence on unexpected cold or heat waves.
If you're looking for a less fuzzy kiwi, there are a few options available. The golden kiwi, for instance, has smooth skin and is sweeter in taste compared to the green kiwi. The tough kiwi, on the other hand, has thicker and more durable skin that is easier to peel. And then there's the purple kiwi, which has a slightly tangy flavor and a purplish-red flesh.
However, it's important to note that these alternative kiwi varieties may not be as widely available as the standard green kiwi. So if you're a fan of the classic kiwi flavor, the hairy skin may just be a small price to pay. And if you're not a fan of the fuzz, simply give the kiwi a gentle scrub with a soft-bristled brush or peel it with a knife or vegetable peeler before consuming.
In conclusion, the reason why kiwis are fuzzy is due to their natural defense mechanism against bacteria and pests, as well as their ability to retain moisture. While the hairy skin may be off-putting for some, it's important to remember that it serves a purpose in protecting the fruit. And for those who prefer a less fuzzy kiwi, there are alternative varieties available with smoother skin.
So go ahead, and enjoy that sweet and tangy kiwi fruit, whether it's with a spoon, in a salad, or as a refreshing juice. With its numerous health benefits and unique flavor, the kiwi is a delicious addition to any meal or snack.
