Pineapple (Ananas comosus), beloved for its sweet, tangy flavor and vibrant color, is a versatile fruit used in both sweet and savory dishes worldwide. Among the many varieties of pineapple, the MD2 variety stands out for its superior sweetness, low acidity, and golden color. At Great Farmer, we exclusively use MD2 pineapples to produce our frozen pineapple products, ensuring exceptional quality and taste for our global customers.
1. Why MD2 Pineapple?
The MD2 variety, also known as Golden Pineapple, is the preferred choice for frozen pineapple production due to its:
- High Sugar Content: Provides a naturally sweet flavor without the need for added sugar.
- Low Acidity: Offers a balanced taste that appeals to a wide range of consumers.
- Golden Flesh: Retains its vibrant color after freezing, enhancing visual appeal.
- Juicy Texture: Holds up well during freezing and thawing, maintaining its firm yet succulent consistency.
2. From Fresh to Frozen: Production Process
Our frozen pineapple production process follows strict quality standards to preserve natural flavor, color, and nutritional value.
A. Harvesting and Selection
- MD2 pineapples are harvested at peak ripeness, ensuring optimal sweetness and texture.
- Only fruits with uniform size, rich golden color, and firm flesh are selected for freezing.
B. Cleaning and Preparation
- The pineapples are thoroughly washed to remove dirt and impurities.
- After peeling and coring, the fruit is prepared in various cut styles to meet customer requirements:
- Sliced: Pineapple slices with a thickness of 5–10 mm, adjustable based on requirements.
- Cubed: Pieces cut into sizes of 1–2 cm or larger upon request.
- Whole: Cleaned, peeled, and with the eyes removed, frozen intact.
- Custom Cubes: Size 10 x 10 x 10 mm or as requested by customers.
C. Blanching
- Pineapple pieces undergo a brief blanching process to:
- Inactivate enzymes that cause browning and texture degradation.
- Preserve the bright golden color and fresh taste.
D. Rapid Freezing
- The prepared pieces are frozen using Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) at -40°C.
- This method prevents large ice crystal formation, ensuring the pineapple retains its firm texture and juiciness.
E. Packaging and Storage
- The frozen pineapple is immediately packaged in PA/PE material to protect against moisture loss and freezer burn.
- Stored at -18°C, the product has a shelf life of up to 2 years.
3. Product Description
Our frozen pineapple is designed to meet the needs of both retail and foodservice markets with flexible options for packaging and cut styles.
Product Features:
- Color: Natural orange-yellow, without browning, dark spots, or discoloration.
- Flavor: Sweet and tangy, with low acidity.
- Texture: Firm and juicy, maintaining integrity after thawing.
Cut Options:
Cut Style | Description | Common Uses |
Sliced | Thickness: 5–10 mm | Baking, desserts, fruit platters |
Cubed | Size: 1–2 cm or customized | Smoothies, salads, stir-fries |
Whole | Cleaned and peeled, frozen intact | Roasting, garnishes, fruit carving |
Custom Cubes | Size: 10 x 10 x 10 mm or as requested | Frozen fruit bowls, culinary innovation |
4. Nutritional Benefits of Frozen Pineapple
Frozen pineapple retains much of the nutritional value of fresh fruit due to advanced freezing techniques. It is a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Key Nutrients:
- Vitamin C: Boosts immune function, supports skin health, and aids in collagen production.
- Manganese: Essential for bone health and metabolism.
- Bromelain: A natural enzyme that promotes digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Dietary Fiber: Supports healthy digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Frozen pineapple offers a convenient, nutrient-dense option for health-conscious consumers and plant-based diets.
5. Culinary Applications
Frozen pineapple is highly versatile, making it suitable for both everyday meals and gourmet recipes.
Common Uses:
- Smoothies and Beverages:
- Adds natural sweetness and a tropical flavor to smoothies, juices, and cocktails.
- Commonly used in piña colada recipes.
- Desserts and Baked Goods:
- Featured in pineapple upside-down cake, fruit tarts, and sorbets.
- Used as a topping for ice cream and yogurt parfaits.
- Savory Dishes:
- Adds a sweet-tangy contrast to stir-fries and grilled meats.
- Frequently used on Hawaiian-style pizzas.
- Salads and Side Dishes:
- Blended with other fruits in tropical salads.
- Paired with quinoa, chicken, or shrimp for refreshing main courses.
With its bright flavor and convenience, frozen pineapple enhances a wide range of culinary creations.
6. Convenience and Guaranteed Nutritional Value
A. Convenience:
- Ready-to-Use: No peeling, coring, or cutting required. Simply defrost and add to your dish.
- Flexible Formats: Available in slices, chunks, and whole to suit different recipes.
- Consistent Quality: Processed under strict guidelines to ensure uniform color, flavor, and texture.
B. Guaranteed Nutritional Value:
- Our advanced freezing technology preserves key vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, ensuring maximum nutritional retention.
- Unlike canned or over-processed alternatives, our frozen pineapple maintains its natural taste and appearance.
By offering both convenience and nutrition, frozen pineapple meets the needs of busy households, restaurants, and foodservice operators.
Conclusion: Premium Frozen Pineapple for Every Occasion
Great Farmer’s frozen pineapple, made with the MD2 variety, delivers exceptional sweetness, vibrant color, and nutritional value. Whether used in smoothies, desserts, or main dishes, our frozen pineapple offers a reliable, convenient solution for year-round enjoyment.