30 Awesome Kiwi Fruit Facts

30 fun facts about Kiwi Fruit including 10 fun facts about Kiwi Fruit especially for kids, plus more about where they grow, what makes them special, how they are used, and more!

What is Kiwi Fruit?
Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts 1-25
Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts for Kids
Where do Kiwi Fruit Grow?
What Makes the Kiwi Fruit Special?
What are The Benefits and Uses of the Kiwi Fruit?
How Did It Get Its Name?
Morphology
Different Kinds
Nutrition
Similar Plants

What is Kiwi Fruit?

Kiwi fruit, also known simply as “kiwi,” is a type of fruit that is botanically classified as Actinidia deliciosa. It is native to China but is now cultivated in several countries, including New Zealand, Italy, and the United States. Kiwi fruit has a distinctive appearance and taste. Before we get to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, here are some key characteristics of kiwi fruit:

Appearance: Kiwi fruit is small to medium in size, usually about the size of a large hen’s egg. It has a brown, fuzzy skin that is typically removed before eating. Inside, the flesh is a vibrant, bright green color with tiny black seeds distributed throughout.
Flavor: Kiwi fruit has a unique flavor profile that is often described as a combination of sweet and tangy. The taste is somewhat reminiscent of strawberries, melons, and bananas, with a hint of citrus.
Nutritional Profile: Kiwi fruit is highly nutritious and is considered a healthy addition to one’s diet. It is low in calories and fat while being rich in vitamins and minerals. Kiwi fruit is particularly known for its high vitamin C content, providing more than 100% of the recommended daily intake in a single fruit. It also contains dietary fiber, vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, and antioxidants.
Culinary Uses: Kiwi fruit is often eaten fresh by cutting it in half and scooping out the flesh with a spoon. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in various dishes and recipes. Kiwi fruit can be added to fruit salads, smoothies, desserts, and used as a garnish for cakes or cocktails.
Health Benefits: Due to its nutritional composition, kiwi fruit offers several health benefits. It is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress. The high vitamin C content supports immune function and collagen synthesis. The dietary fiber in kiwi fruit aids digestion and promotes satiety.

When selecting kiwi fruit, look for those that are firm but slightly yielding to gentle pressure. They can be stored at room temperature until ripe and then refrigerated for a few days to prolong their freshness.

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Here are 20 fun facts about Kiwi Fruit:

Origin: Kiwi fruit is native to China and was originally called the Chinese gooseberry. It was later renamed “kiwifruit” in honor of New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi.
Nutritional Powerhouse: Kiwi fruit is packed with nutrients. One medium-sized kiwi provides about 117% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, more potassium than a banana, and a good amount of dietary fiber.
Fuzzy Exterior: The brown, fuzzy skin of kiwi fruit is actually edible, although most people prefer to peel it before eating.
Kiwifruit Varieties: The most common variety of kiwi fruit is the green-fleshed Hayward kiwi. However, there are also golden kiwi varieties with yellow flesh that are sweeter and less tangy.
Chinese Superstition: In China, kiwi fruit is considered a symbol of good luck, and it is often given as a gift during the Chinese New Year.
Kiwi Fruit Seeds: Kiwi fruit contains small black seeds that are edible. They add a crunchy texture but are often unnoticed due to their size.
Storage Enzymes: Kiwi fruit contains enzymes called actinidin, which can be used to tenderize meat. Placing a slice of kiwi on tough meat can help break down its fibers.
Vitamin E Content: Kiwi fruit is one of the few fruits that contain a significant amount of vitamin E, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin and eyes.
Digestive Enzymes: Kiwi fruit contains a natural enzyme called actinidain, which can aid in digestion by breaking down proteins.
Shelf Life: Kiwi fruit has a relatively long shelf life. When stored in the refrigerator, it can remain fresh for up to 2-3 weeks.
Kiwi as a Meat Tenderizer: The actinidin enzyme present in kiwi fruit can be used as a natural meat tenderizer. Marinating meat with kiwi fruit can help make it more tender and flavorful.
Pollination: Kiwi fruit plants require cross-pollination, which means they need both male and female vines to produce fruit. Bees are the primary pollinators for kiwi flowers.
Vitamin K Content: Kiwi fruit is a good source of vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
Antioxidant Capacity: Kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals and oxidative stress.
Fiber Content: Kiwi fruit is a high-fiber food, which promotes healthy digestion and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Kiwi Skin Benefits: The skin of kiwi fruit contains high levels of antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E. Some people use mashed kiwi skin as a natural facial mask for glowing skin.
Harvest Season: Kiwi fruit is typically harvested in the fall, from March to May in the Southern Hemisphere and from September to November in the Northern Hemisphere.
Global Production: Italy is the largest producer of kiwi fruit, followed by New Zealand and China.
Kiwi Fruit Allergies: Some individuals may be allergic to kiwi fruit, experiencing symptoms such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. It is recommended to seek medical advice if you suspect an allergy.
Weight Loss Aid: Due to its high fiber content and low-calorie count, kiwi fruit can be a beneficial addition to a weight loss diet.
Kiwi Fruit Ice Cream: Kiwi fruit can be used to make a refreshing and healthy ice cream. Simply blend frozen kiwi

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Kiwi Fruit!

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 10 fun facts about Kiwi Fruit that kids might enjoy:

Kiwi Fruit’s Fuzzy Coat: Kiwi fruit has a fuzzy, brown skin that feels like a soft little animal. It’s fun to touch and rub!
A Fruit with a Bird’s Name: Kiwi fruit shares its name with a flightless bird from New Zealand called the kiwi. They both have a cute and unique connection!
Sweet and Tangy Taste: Kiwi fruit is not only delicious but also has a unique combination of sweet and tangy flavors that make it extra special.
Full of Vitamin C: Kiwi fruit has even more vitamin C than oranges! It’s like having a superpower fruit that helps keep you healthy and strong.
Colorful Inside: When you cut a kiwi fruit in half, you’ll see a beautiful bright green color with tiny black seeds. It looks like a tropical treasure!
Tiny Seeds to Crunch: Kiwi fruit has tiny black seeds that you can eat. They add a fun crunchy texture to every bite.
Kiwi Fruit’s Magic Enzyme: Kiwi fruit has a special enzyme called actinidin that can help tenderize meat. It’s like a secret superpower hiding in the fruit!
Kiwi Fruit’s Packed Lunch: Kiwi fruit is like a tiny vitamin and mineral treasure trove. It has lots of good stuff like vitamin E, vitamin K, and dietary fiber that helps your body stay healthy.
Kiwi Fruit’s Allergy Adventures: Some people can be allergic to kiwi fruit. It’s like a special fruit that has secret surprises for different people. Always check with a grown-up if you’re not sure!
Kiwi Fruit from Around the World: Kiwi fruit comes from different places around the world, like New Zealand, Italy, and China. It’s like taking a tasty trip around the globe without leaving your kitchen!

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Kiwi Fruit!

Where do Kiwi Fruit From?

A fun fun facts about Kiwi Fruit is that Kiwi fruit is native to China, specifically the Yangtze River Valley region. It was originally known as the Chinese gooseberry. However, it was later introduced to New Zealand in the early 20th century, where it was cultivated and became popular. New Zealand eventually became one of the largest producers and exporters of kiwi fruit. Today, kiwi fruit is also grown in various other countries, including Italy, Chile, Greece, France, and the United States.

What Makes the Kiwi Fruit Special?

In addition to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, Kiwi fruit is special for several reasons:

Unique Appearance: Kiwi fruit stands out with its distinctive appearance. It has a brown, fuzzy skin that encloses vibrant green flesh with small black seeds. Its visual appeal makes it easily recognizable and adds a touch of uniqueness to fruit bowls and dishes.
Tangy and Sweet Flavor: Kiwi fruit offers a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Its taste is often described as a mix of strawberry, melon, and banana, with a hint of citrus. This unique flavor profile makes kiwi fruit enjoyable to eat on its own or as an ingredient in various recipes.
Nutritional Value: Kiwi fruit is a nutritional powerhouse. It is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, and dietary fiber. It is also low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
Vitamin C Content: Kiwi fruit is particularly known for its high vitamin C content. In fact, it contains more vitamin C per serving than oranges. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and helps protect the body against oxidative stress.
Digestive Benefits: Kiwi fruit contains a natural enzyme called actinidain, which aids in digestion by breaking down proteins. This enzyme can be beneficial for individuals with digestive issues and promotes a healthy gut.
Versatile Culinary Uses: Kiwi fruit is versatile in the kitchen. It can be enjoyed fresh by itself, added to fruit salads, used as a topping for yogurt or cereal, blended into smoothies, or incorporated into desserts like cakes and tarts. Its vibrant color and refreshing flavor make it an exciting ingredient in various culinary creations.
Antioxidant Properties: Kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and vitamin E. Antioxidants help protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules linked to various health issues. Consuming antioxidant-rich foods like kiwi fruit contributes to overall well-being.
Fun and Engaging: The fuzzy texture of kiwi fruit’s skin, along with its bright green color and tiny black seeds, can make eating and exploring kiwi fruit a fun and engaging experience for both kids and adults.

These qualities, ranging from its visual appeal and unique taste to its nutritional benefits and versatility in recipes, contribute to making kiwi fruit special and enjoyable for many people.

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts – Benefits and Uses

Kiwi fruit offers numerous benefits and has a variety of uses. In addition to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, here are some of the key benefits and uses of kiwi fruit:

Nutritional Powerhouse: Kiwi fruit is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, and dietary fiber. Consuming kiwi fruit provides a range of health benefits and contributes to overall well-being.
Immune Support: Kiwi fruit is renowned for its high vitamin C content. Vitamin C is known to support immune function, helping the body fight off illnesses and infections.
Digestive Health: The natural enzyme called actinidain found in kiwi fruit helps break down proteins, aiding digestion. It may be beneficial for individuals with digestive issues such as bloating or discomfort.
Heart Health: Kiwi fruit contains dietary fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health. Its potassium content also promotes heart health by assisting in the maintenance of normal blood pressure levels.
Antioxidant Protection: Kiwi fruit is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C and vitamin E. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to various chronic diseases and aging.
Eye Health: The high levels of vitamin C, vitamin E, and other antioxidants in kiwi fruit contribute to maintaining healthy eyes and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Skin Health: The antioxidants in kiwi fruit, particularly vitamin C, help promote healthy skin by protecting against oxidative stress and aiding in collagen synthesis, which is essential for skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Weight Management: Kiwi fruit is low in calories and fat while providing a good amount of dietary fiber. Its fiber content promotes satiety, helping you feel full for longer and potentially aiding in weight management.
Culinary Uses: Kiwi fruit is versatile in the kitchen. It can be eaten fresh as a snack, added to fruit salads, smoothies, or yogurt for added flavor and nutrition. Kiwi fruit can also be used as a topping for breakfast bowls, incorporated into desserts like pies or cakes, or even used as a meat tenderizer in marinades.
Skincare and DIY Masks: Some people use mashed kiwi fruit or kiwi fruit pulp as a natural face mask due to its antioxidant and vitamin C content. It may help brighten the skin, reduce dark spots, and give a refreshing glow.

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts – How Did It Get Its Name?

Another fun fact about Kiwi Fruit is that the kiwi fruit got its name from New Zealand, where it was introduced and cultivated in the early 20th century. Originally, the fruit was known as the “Chinese gooseberry” due to its origin in China. However, in an effort to make the fruit more marketable and distinct, New Zealand growers renamed it “kiwifruit” in the 1950s.

The new name was inspired by New Zealand’s national bird, the kiwi. The kiwi bird is a flightless bird native to New Zealand, known for its small size, round body, long beak, and distinctive appearance. By associating the fruit with the national bird, growers aimed to create a unique and recognizable brand for the fruit, emphasizing its connection to New Zealand.

The name change to “kiwifruit” was successful in capturing attention and differentiating the fruit in the global market. Today, the term “kiwifruit” is widely used to refer to the fruit, distinguishing it from the bird and creating a strong association with New Zealand.

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts – Morphology

In addition to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, the morphology of a kiwi fruit can be described as follows:

Size: Kiwi fruit is typically small to medium-sized, roughly about the size of a large hen’s egg. However, sizes can vary depending on the variety.
Shape: Kiwi fruit has an oval or ellipsoid shape, similar to that of a rounded rugby ball. It is slightly elongated and tapers towards the ends.
Skin: The outer skin of a kiwi fruit is thin but notably distinctive. It is covered in short, brown, and fuzzy hairs, giving it a textured appearance. The skin is usually removed before consuming the fruit, as it can be tough and unpalatable.
Color: The natural color of kiwi fruit’s skin is brown or tan, covered with a fuzzy texture. However, the most common variety, the Hayward kiwi, has a light brown skin with a greenish hue. Some varieties, known as golden kiwi, have a smooth, bronze-colored skin.
Flesh: Once the skin is removed, the inner flesh of a kiwi fruit is revealed. The flesh is bright green in color, with a succulent and juicy texture. It is soft and slightly fibrous, containing numerous small, edible black seeds that are distributed throughout the flesh.
Seeds: Kiwi fruit seeds are small and black. They are generally very small and inconspicuous, providing a subtle crunch when consumed along with the flesh. The seeds are edible, but some people prefer to remove them.
Taste: Kiwi fruit has a unique flavor profile that is often described as a combination of sweet and tangy. The taste is mildly sweet, with a refreshing tartness and hints of tropical fruit flavors, such as strawberry, melon, and banana.

The morphology of a kiwi fruit features an oval shape, covered in a brown, fuzzy skin. Once peeled, the bright green flesh with small black seeds is revealed, offering a delicious and refreshing taste.

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts – Different Kinds of Kiwi Fruit

There are several different varieties of kiwi fruit, each with its own unique characteristics. In addition to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, the most common varieties include:

Hayward Kiwi: The Hayward kiwi is the most widely cultivated and recognized variety. It has a brown, fuzzy skin and vibrant green flesh with small black seeds. It has a tangy and sweet flavor.
Golden Kiwi: Golden kiwi, also known as yellow kiwi or gold kiwi, is a variety with a smooth, bronze-colored skin and golden-yellow flesh. It is sweeter and less tangy than the Hayward kiwi, with a tropical and honey-like flavor.
Baby Kiwi: Baby kiwi, also known as kiwi berry or hardy kiwi, is a smaller variety of kiwi fruit. It is about the size of a grape and has a smooth, edible skin. Baby kiwi has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often eaten whole, including the skin.
Red Kiwi: Red kiwi, also known as the red-fleshed kiwi, is a unique variety with a reddish-purple flesh. The skin is usually smooth and brown, similar to the Hayward kiwi. It has a slightly sweeter and more tropical flavor compared to the green-fleshed varieties.
Kiwi Berry: Kiwi berry is another small-sized kiwi variety, similar to baby kiwi. It has a smooth skin and is typically eaten whole, including the skin. Kiwi berries are often sweeter and more aromatic than larger kiwi fruit.
Arctic Kiwi: Arctic kiwi, also known as hardy kiwi or kiwi berry, is a smaller and smooth-skinned variety of kiwi fruit. It is hardy and can withstand colder climates. Arctic kiwi has a sweet and tangy flavor and is often eaten whole.

These are just a few examples of the different varieties of kiwi fruit available. Each variety offers its own unique taste, texture, and appearance, allowing for a diverse kiwi fruit experience.

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts – Kiwi Fruit Nutrition

Kiwi fruit is not only delicious but also offers a range of important nutrients. In addition to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, here is a breakdown of the nutrition found in a typical serving size of kiwi fruit (100 grams):

Calories: Kiwi fruit is relatively low in calories. A 100-gram serving contains about 61 calories.
Carbohydrates: Kiwi fruit is a good source of carbohydrates. A 100-gram serving provides around 15 grams of carbohydrates, including dietary fiber and natural sugars.
Dietary Fiber: Kiwi fruit is rich in dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. A 100-gram serving of kiwi fruit contains approximately 3 grams of dietary fiber.
Vitamin C: Kiwi fruit is renowned for its high vitamin C content. It is one of the best fruit sources of this important antioxidant vitamin. A 100-gram serving of kiwi fruit provides about 93 milligrams of vitamin C, which is more than the recommended daily intake for adults.
Vitamin K: Kiwi fruit is a good source of vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. A 100-gram serving contains approximately 40 micrograms of vitamin K.
Vitamin E: Kiwi fruit contains vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. A 100-gram serving provides around 1.5 milligrams of vitamin E.
Potassium: Kiwi fruit is a decent source of potassium, an essential mineral that supports heart health and proper muscle function. A 100-gram serving contains approximately 312 milligrams of potassium.
Other Nutrients: Kiwi fruit also contains small amounts of other nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B9 (folate), calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Kiwi fruit is generally recognized as a nutritious and healthy addition to a balanced diet, offering a range of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Kiwi Fruit Fun Facts – Similar Plants

There are a few other plants that share similarities with the kiwi fruit in terms of their characteristics or growing conditions. In addition to the fun facts about Kiwi Fruit, here are a few examples:

Passion Fruit: Passion fruit is a tropical fruit that has a similar texture and appearance to kiwi fruit. It has a thick, wrinkled skin and a juicy, flavorful pulp filled with small seeds. Passion fruit is known for its tangy and tropical flavor.
Dragon Fruit: Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a vibrant fruit with a unique appearance. It has a bright pink or yellow skin with scales, and the flesh inside is white or red with small black seeds. Dragon fruit has a mildly sweet and refreshing taste.
Persimmon: Persimmons are fruits that come in different varieties, including Fuyu and Hachiya. Fuyu persimmons resemble tomatoes in shape and have a sweet, crisp texture. Hachiya persimmons are more elongated and have a soft, jelly-like flesh when fully ripe. Both varieties have a sweet and flavorful taste.
Pawpaw: Pawpaw, also known as the American custard apple, is a fruit native to North America. It has a greenish-yellow skin and a custard-like, creamy flesh with a tropical flavor. Pawpaw fruits have a taste that some describe as a combination of banana, mango, and melon.
Gooseberry: Gooseberries are small, round berries that can be similar in size to kiwi fruit. They have a tart flavor and can range in color from green to red or purple, depending on the variety. Gooseberries are often used in jams, desserts, or eaten fresh when fully ripe.
Feijoa: Feijoa, also known as pineapple guava, is a fruit native to South America. It has a green, egg-shaped skin and a soft, aromatic flesh with a tangy and sweet flavor reminiscent of a mix between pineapple, guava, and mint. Feijoas are often eaten fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, and juices.

We hope you enjoyed these fun facts about Kiwi Fruit!