Feijoa

Acca sellowiana

Feijoa is a South American tropical fruit renowned for its unique pineapple-guava flavor and creamy smooth texture. Good source of vitamin C (20% DV) supporting immune function and antioxidant defense. Rich in dietary fiber (6.4g) supporting digestive health and regular bowel function. Contains polyphenols and antioxidants with powerful anti-inflammatory benefits. Very low in calories (55 per 100g) ideal for weight management. Contains potassium supporting heart health and blood pressure regulation. Contains copper supporting collagen synthesis and immune function. Unique aromatic compounds providing distinctive flavor and traditional wellness benefits. Native to South America, feijoa gaining international recognition as distinctive exotic fruit supporting comprehensive wellness.

Calories

6.4g

Fiber

53%

Vitamin C

Photo Gallery

Explore Feijoa in stunning detail

Feijoa - Main View

Nutrition Facts

Calories

per 100g

Carbs

12.3g

per 100g

Protein

0.7g

per 100g

Fiber

6.4g

per 100g

Sugar

4.2g

per 100g

Fat

0.4g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin C

53% DV

32 mg

Immune function, antioxidant defense, collagen synthesis, wound healing

Vitamin E

5% DV

0.7 mg

Antioxidant defense, cell protection, immune function, skin health

Folate (B9)

9% DV

37 mcg

Cell division, DNA synthesis, neurological function, fetal development

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

5% DV

166 mg

Heart health, blood pressure regulation, muscle function

Copper

9% DV

0.08 mg

Collagen synthesis, iron metabolism, immune function

Manganese

4% DV

0.08 mg

Bone health, metabolism, antioxidant support

🛡️Antioxidants

Vitamin CPolyphenolsFlavonoidsVitamin E

🌿Phytonutrients

Polyphenols - powerful antioxidant compounds with anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefitsFlavonoids - antioxidant pigments with neuroprotective and anti-cancer propertiesVitamin E - lipid-soluble antioxidant with cellular protection and immune benefitsCarotenoids - antioxidant compounds with eye health and immune-supporting properties

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

100g fresh feijoa pulp

Calories

55kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

12.3g

Fiber

6.4g

25% DV

Sugar

4.2g

Protein

0.7g

Fat

0.4g

Vitamin C

💊

32mg

53% DV

Potassium

⚡

166mg

5% DV

Health Benefits

Excellent vitamin C (53% DV) supports superior immune function and antioxidant defense

Exceptional fiber (6.4g, 25% DV) supports digestive health and regular bowel function

Good copper (9% DV) supports collagen synthesis and immune function

Good folate (9% DV) supports cell division and neurological function

Rich polyphenols and flavonoids provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits

Unique aromatic volatile compounds provide distinctive flavor and wellness benefits

Very low calorie (55/100g) ideal for weight management and metabolic health

Very low glycemic index (23) and load (3) ideal for blood sugar management

Good vitamin E (5% DV) supports cellular protection and antioxidant defense

South American tradition supporting centuries of wellness practices

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

South America, Brazil, Paraguay, Colombia

Global Presence

Brazil

Paraguay

Colombia

Uruguay

Argentina

Chile

New Zealand

South America

Top Producers

BrazilParaguayColombiaSouth America

Historical Background

Feijoa native to South America with traditional cultivation spanning centuries in Brazil, Paraguay, and Colombia. Discovered by European explorers in 18th century expanding cultivation. South American food heritage spanning generations. Traditional South American cuisine foundation. Colonial period documentation expanding knowledge. Modern cultivation expanding to New Zealand and limited global regions. Scientific research validating traditional nutritional and aromatic benefits. Culinary tradition continuing in South American cuisine as distinctive exotic specialty fruit.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Peak season April-June in Northern Hemisphere (autumn Southern)

3 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

Apollo

Brazil, primary variety

Color

Cream-green flesh, light green bumpy exterior

Taste Profile

Sweet pineapple-guava flavor, creamy smooth texture

Best For

Fresh eating, specialty markets, premium selection

Triumph

South America, commercial variety

Color

Pale yellow-green flesh, medium green exterior

Taste Profile

Balanced sweet-tart flavor, aromatic complexity

Best For

Fresh eating, specialty culinary preparations

Unique

New Zealand, heritage variety

Color

Greenish-white flesh, bumpy green exterior

Taste Profile

Complex tropical flavor with distinctive aroma

Best For

Fresh eating, traditional preparations, specialty uses

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select firm feijoa without soft spots or bruises

Choose green color with yellowish tones indicating ripeness

Press gently - should be firm with slight give when ripe

Look for fragrant distinctive aroma indicating ripeness

Avoid pale greenish specimens lacking fragrance

Check for uniform color and bumpy textured exterior

Purchase from specialty grocers or international markets

Select consistent size for even ripeness

Proper Storage Methods

Store at room temperature up to 2-3 weeks when ripe

Refrigerate for extended storage up to 3-4 weeks

Keep in produce drawer away from other fruits

Can be frozen as pulp up to 3 months

Best consumed fresh shortly after purchase

Cut carefully and scoop pulp before consumption

Avoid plastic wrap - allow air circulation for fragrance

Consume quickly for optimal flavor and nutritional content

Shelf Life Guide

Refrigerated

21-28 days in produce drawer

Average Shelf Life

28 days

Freezing Instructions

Preserve freshness for months

2-3 months

Feijoa best consumed fresh

Can be frozen as pulp up to 3 months

Thaw before consuming for best quality

Frozen pulp excellent for smoothies

Texture softens after freezing

Frozen fruit maintains vitamin C content

Freeze in portions for convenient serving

Pro Tip

Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Culinary Journey

Discover delicious possibilities

Common Uses

Fresh fruit eating

Juice preparation

Smoothie ingredient

Dessert topping

Jam preparation

Ice cream ingredient

South American specialty

Premium ingredient

Perfect Pairings

Lime - citrus enhancement

Honey - sweetness balance

Mint - fresh complement

Other tropical fruits - mixed preparations

Yogurt - creamy pairing

Vanilla - flavor enhancement

Coconut - tropical pairing

Dark chocolate - sweet contrast

Popular Recipes

Fresh feijoa snacking

Feijoa juice

Feijoa smoothie

Fruit salad ingredient

Jam dessert

Ice cream ingredient

Tropical beverage

South American specialty dish

Refreshing Beverages

Fresh feijoa juice

Feijoa smoothie

Tropical blended drink

Sparkling feijoa water

Herbal tea flavor

Citrus beverage

Natural water flavor

Wellness drink

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Feijoa allergies extremely rare with minimal documented cases. Tropical fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with tropical fruit sensitivities should consult allergist. Possible cross-reactivity with guava but rare.

Pesticide Concerns:

Feijoa cultivated with varying pesticide practices in South America. Organic feijoa available from certified producers. Conventional fruit acceptable with water rinsing. South American suppliers often emphasizing traditional and sustainable cultivation practices.

Who Should Avoid:

• Individuals with documented tropical fruit allergies - though feijoa reactions very rare
• Those with guava family allergies - possible cross-reactivity though unlikely
• Individuals on specific medications - consult provider if concerns about exotic fruits
• Those with tropical fruit sensitivities - cross-reactivity possible though minimal documented
• Individuals with specific medical conditions - consult healthcare provider if concerns

Possible Side Effects:

•Allergic reactions (very rare) ranging from mild symptoms to swelling
•Digestive benefits from high fiber - may need gradual introduction
•Minimal side effects documented for fresh feijoa
•Generally well-tolerated by most individuals
•Rare reactions in tropical-fruit-sensitive individuals

Preparation Safety:

• Rinse feijoa under water before cutting
• Use clean utensils for handling and preparation
• Wash hands after handling raw fruit
• Scoop pulp carefully before consumption
• Discard any moldy or deteriorated fruit
• Use fresh feijoa pulp within 2-3 days or refrigerate
• Freeze pulp for long-term safe storage
• Start with small amounts to assess individual tolerance
• Follow proper food safety guidelines for handling
• Store properly to maintain freshness and safety

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Feijoa native to South America with centuries of traditional cultivation in Brazil, Paraguay, and Colombia

Excellent vitamin C (53% DV) among highest of South American tropical fruits supporting immune health

Exceptional fiber (6.4g, 25% DV) supporting superior digestive and prebiotic benefits

Distinctive pineapple-guava flavor combines tropical fruit characteristics in unique profile

Creamy smooth texture unique among tropical fruits providing pleasant eating experience

Good copper (9% DV) supports collagen synthesis and immune system function

Volatile aromatic compounds provide distinctive fragrance with sensory appeal

Rich polyphenols and flavonoids provide antioxidant benefits comparable to cultivated fruits

Very low glycemic index (23) and load (3) ideal for blood sugar management and metabolic health

Limited global availability makes feijoa specialty exotic product primarily in specialty markets

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes feijoa unique among South American tropical fruits and what is the significance of its pineapple-guava flavor?

Health

Feijoa distinctive South American tropical fruit with unique characteristics. UNIQUE FLAVOR: Distinctive pineapple-guava flavor characteristic. Tropical taste profile. Complex sweetness. Flavor intensity. Taste memory. FLAVOR SIGNIFICANCE: Flavor indicates ripeness. Quality marker. Aromatic sensory benefit. Distinctive characteristic. Palate memorable. EXCELLENT VITAMIN C: 53% DV excellent content. Immune superiority. Antioxidant support. Seasonal benefit. Nutritional value. EXCEPTIONAL FIBER: 25% DV exceptional content. Digestive superiority. Prebiotic benefit. Wellness advantage. Nutritional density. CREAMY TEXTURE: Creamy smooth texture unique. Buttery consistency. Smooth pleasure. Texture appeal. Palatable sensation. COMPARED TO GUAVA: Feijoa creamier. Less stringy. Different profile. Unique benefit profile. Complementary characteristics. COMPARED TO MANGO: Feijoa more exotic flavor. Different profile. Unique aromatic compounds. Distinctive benefit profile. Complementary characteristics. SWEET FLAVOR PROFILE: Sweet balanced taste. Low tartness. Pleasant flavor. Palatable taste. Culinary versatility. POLYPHENOL RICHNESS: Rich antioxidant compounds. Anti-inflammatory benefits. Cardiovascular support. Disease prevention. Cellular protection. AROMATIC COMPOUNDS: Volatile compounds present. Fragrance sensory appeal. Taste enhancement. Distinctive characteristic. Research interest. BOTTOM LINE: Feijoa distinctive South American tropical fruit with excellent vitamin C (53% DV), exceptional fiber (25% DV), distinctive pineapple-guava flavor providing taste complexity and tropical appeal, creamy smooth texture, unique aromatic volatile compounds with sensory benefits, rich polyphenols with anti-inflammatory benefits, very low glycemic profile, South American heritage, and distinctive nutritional and sensory profile central to South American culinary tradition.

What are the best culinary applications for feijoa and which South American recipes showcase its flavor?

Recipes

Feijoa versatile South American tropical fruit ingredient with traditional applications emphasizing fresh eating and specialty dishes. FRESH EATING: Direct consumption traditional. Scoop pulp consumption. Creamy pulp. Simple enjoyment. Cultural preparation. SNACK PREPARATION: Direct snacking popular. Convenient spoon eating. Portable fruit. Sweet refreshment. Modern application. JUICE PREPARATION: Fresh juice traditional. Strained juice. Refreshment drink. Natural beverage. FEIJOA JUICE: Fresh feijoa 3 fruits, extract pulp, strained, drink fresh. SMOOTHIE PREPARATION: Feijoa smoothies popular. Yogurt base traditional. Banana combination. Tropical enhancement. Nutritious beverage. FEIJOA SMOOTHIE: Feijoa pulp 1 cup, banana 1, yogurt 150ml, honey 1 tablespoon, blend well. JAM PREPARATION: Jam ingredient specialty. Jam preparation. Preserve creation. Culinary specialty. FEIJOA JAM: Feijoa pulp 2 cups, sugar 1.5 cups, cook to gel stage, jar. ICE CREAM: Ice cream ingredient popular. Frozen dessert. Premium creation. Culinary specialty. FRUIT SALAD: Ingredient possible. Tropical combination. Texture contrast. Flavor complexity. Culinary application. BOTTOM LINE: Feijoa quintessential South American tropical fruit ingredient with traditional fresh fruit eating as primary consumption via spoon, juice as beverage application, smoothie as nutritious preparation, jam as preserve specialty, ice cream as premium application, fruit salad as culinary combination, and recipes highlighting distinctive pineapple-guava flavor, excellent vitamin C and exceptional fiber content delivery, creamy smooth texture, low calorie, and South American culinary tradition.

Is feijoa safe for consumption and what populations should be aware of?

Safety

Feijoa safe for consumption with generally good safety record. Generally well-tolerated by most populations. ALLERGY INFO: Feijoa allergies extremely rare. Tropical fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with tropical fruit sensitivities should consult allergist. Cross-reactivity with guava possible but rare. PREGNANCY CONSIDERATIONS: Feijoa safe during pregnancy. Vitamin C beneficial. Fiber helpful. Folate beneficial. Water content helpful. Moderation recommended. Consult healthcare provider. BREASTFEEDING: Feijoa likely safe during breastfeeding. Limited research available. Consult healthcare provider. Infant safety considerations important. Traditional use supportive. CHILDREN CONSIDERATIONS: Feijoa safe for children. Sweet flavor appealing. Creamy texture pleasant. Nutritious food option. Age-appropriate consumption. MEDICATION INTERACTIONS: Feijoa minimal medication interaction. No known significant interactions. Medical consultation optional. Generally compatible. KIDNEY PATIENTS: Feijoa low potassium (5% DV). Kidney disease patients safe. Excellent option. Potassium level low. ORAL HEALTH: Low acidity content. Tooth enamel protection. Generally safe. Moderation important. SIDE EFFECTS: Minimal side effects documented. Allergic reactions very rare. Digestive benefits from fiber beneficial. Most individuals tolerating well. STORAGE SAFETY: Proper storage important. Use before deterioration. Fresh consumption optimal. Freezing maintains safety. PESTICIDE CONCERNS: Feijoa cultivated with varying practices in South America. Organic feijoa available. Conventional fruit acceptable. Rinse before consuming. South American suppliers often sustainable. BOTTOM LINE: Feijoa safe for consumption for most populations with generally good safety record, extremely rare allergies with possible guava cross-reactivity if sensitive, minimal medication interactions, safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding with folate benefits, safe for children with sweet appealing flavor, low potassium benefit for kidney disease patients, minimal oral health concerns, and generally safe with minimal precautions needed.

What is the cultural significance of feijoa in South American cuisine and how has it been recognized globally?

Culture

Feijoa profound cultural significance in South American culinary tradition and emerging global interest in exotic fruits. SOUTH AMERICAN ORIGINS: Native to South America. Traditional cultivation centuries. South American agricultural heritage. Regional significance. Historical root. TRADITIONAL USES: Fresh eating traditional practice. Specialty fruit staple. Cultural consumption. Flavor identity. Culinary foundation. REGIONAL IDENTITY: South American signature fruit. Regional agricultural heritage. Regional economic importance. Cultural symbol. Local pride. BRAZIL SPECIALTY: Brazilian cultivation center. Premium association. Regional distinction. Agricultural pride. Cultural symbol. MARKET STATUS: Limited market presence. Specialty exotic ingredient. Growing recognition. Niche market. Emerging interest. MODERN EXPANSION: Exotic fruit movement growth. Specialty market recognition. Export development expanding. Global availability limited. International interest growing. HEALTH TRENDS: Contemporary superfruit recognition. Fiber emphasis. Vitamin C benefits. Scientific validation. Health community interest. DIASPORA SIGNIFICANCE: South American communities maintaining traditions. Cultural heritage preservation. Identity connection. Intergenerational transmission. NEW ZEALAND CULTIVATION: Successful cultivation expanding. Modern production. Export capability. Global distribution. Market development. CULINARY REVIVAL: Contemporary chef interest. Modern applications. Heritage ingredient innovation. Culinary artistry. Specialty market. SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS: Traditional cultivation methods. Biodiversity support. Heritage preservation. Environmental stewardship. Conservation importance. GLOBAL RECOGNITION: International awareness minimal but growing. Exotic fruit community interest. Consumer awareness limited. Niche global market. Specialty positioning. BOTTOM LINE: Feijoa profound cultural significance as South American tropical fruit native to region, traditional cultivation heritage spanning centuries in Brazil and Paraguay, South American agricultural and culinary identity, traditional fresh fruit eating and specialty staple significance, Brazilian premium quality association, New Zealand modern cultivation expansion, contemporary superfruit movement recognition emphasizing fiber and vitamin C, expanding international specialty market as niche product, diaspora heritage preservation, authentic South American sourcing appreciation, and emerging global market recognition as distinctive South American exotic culinary specialty ingredient.