January Harvest of the Month – Grapefruit
This fruit is a cross between the orange and the pomelo.
To start off 2019, we are featuring Grapefruit as our Harvest of the Month. This tart, but sweet fruit was discovered during the 18th century in Barbados. It grows in clusters on trees similarly to grapes, hence the name grapefruit. In the US, this fruit is produced in Arizona, California, Florida and Texas. Packed with nutrients, grapefruit is a definite yes as part of a wholesome diet. Start off a healthy 2019 by sampling one of the nutritious and enjoyable menu items that feature grapefruit throughout our CHI retail settings.
Fun Facts
Check out these fun facts about grapefruit provided by Mary Ann Kinart, MS, RD, LD, Clinical Nutrition Manager, at CHI St. Luke’s Health – The Woodlands Hospital in The Woodlands, Texas:
- Grapefruit is an accidental hybrid between the orange and the pomelo.
- It was first described as a “forbidden fruit” in Barbados in the 1700’s and is also called the “shaddock” after the sea captain who is said to have brought the seeds of the pomelo to Jamaica; In addition, it has been named the “paradise fruit” after its Latin name.
- The evergreen grapefruit tree can reach up to 25-30 feet tall and produce 1,500 pounds of fruit.
Try These Delicious Recipes (Click to download PDFs)
How to Buy, Store and Prepare
How to Buy and Store: Select grapefruits that have smooth, firm skin without visible blemishes. Avoid ones that appear to be discolored or are “light” for their size. For best results, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks; although you can store them up to one week at room temperature.
How to Prepare: To enjoy fresh grapefruit, cut it in half (just like you cut an orange), then cut around the outside edge of the fruit. Finally, cut around the grapefruit wedges, freeing the fruit from the skin and membrane. Or, you can peel the grapefruit (just like an orange), then separate each section – and enjoy!
Making it Kid-Friendly
Although a little tart, there are several child-friendly recipes that include grapefruit. Try adding grapefruit to fruit salad or homemade smoothies. Or, sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on grapefruit halves and place them under the broiler until the sugar melts. The flavor is both tangy and sweet and kids will be sure to enjoy it!
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Grapefruit: (½ of one fruit)
| Calories: 52 | Saturated Fat: 0g |
| Total Fat: 0g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0g |
| Total Carbohydrate: 13g | Vitamin A: 28% |
| Fiber: 2g | Vitamin C: 64% |
| Protein: 1g | Calcium: 3% |
Grapefruits are about 92% water and offer many health benefits. They are an excellent source of Vitamin C, providing about 60% of the recommended daily intake of the important vitamin. That’s why grapefruits are know for their anti-oxidant properties and for boosting the immune system. In addition, they contain a soluble fiber (pectin) which assists with overall cardiac health.