30+ - Pineapple

Renting a pineapple, for the evening, was a feature of 17th-18th century well-to-do parties. At that time, pineapples cost the equivalent of thousands of pounds. The pineapple was native to South America and had been unknown to Europe until Columbus brought some back in the 1490s. Its rarity and its 'golden crown' meant it became associated with status and wealth. Security guards were hired to prevent them being stolen.

A pineapple plant takes 2-3 years to mature and produce a fruit. It produces one fruit every year for up to 50 years. Botanically, pineapple isn't a fruit but a mass of fused berries.

Pineapples are very high in vitamin C and fibre. They also contain B1, B2, B3, B6, folate, potassium and iron. Their phytonutrients are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. They support protein digestion and the immune system. Pineapple also contains melatonin, the hormone that stimulates sleepiness.

Whether you'd countenance putting it on your pizza or not, pineapple can be used in a number of ways - pineapple beverages and smoothies, stuffed pineapple, pineapple rice, fritters, curries, relish, pancakes, upside-down cake, puddings, fruit salad, fruit kebabs, sorbet, ice cream, jams and jellies.