Pomegranate
Because of its numerous seeds and its red color, the pomegranate has been
linked with fertility since ancient times.
The name pomegranate comes from the Latin for “fruit of many seeds.” Because of
its numerous seeds and its red color, the pomegranate has been linked with fertility since
ancient times. Originating in Persia, the pomegranate appears in the folklore of ancient
Egypt, where it was used in burial, and in the myth of the Persephone, Demeter, and the cycle
of the seasons in Greek mythology. Snacking on pomegranate is laborious, as the edible seeds
must be selected almost one by one to avoid the bitter-tasting membranes that house them.
Pomegranates are about the size of an apple and have leathery, rosy-red skin; the trees grow
well in India, Iran, and parts of the United States.
Varieties
Many varieties of pomegranate are available throughout the world. One of the main
characteristics that sets off the varieties is the different color of the pomegranate seeds,
which can be scarlet, dark pink, or light red.
Buying and storing tips
Choose pomegranates with good color and that feel heavy; avoid those with dry-looking,
wrinkled, or cracked rind. They will keep at room temperature for two to three days or in the
refrigerator for up to three months.
Availability
In the United States, pomegranates are typically available September through November.
Preparation, uses, and tips
Carefully cut through the thin outer skin, and then separate the seeds from the
cream-colored, inedible membrane. The seeds can be eaten raw, sprinkled on fruit salad,
strained and used as a paste in cooking, or as a condiment. In Indian cooking they are used
for a tart accent. Grenadine and other thick syrups are condensed from the pulpy part of the
fruit.
Nutritional Highlights
Pomegranate, 1 fruit (raw)
Calories: 105
Protein: 1.46g
Carbohydrate: 26.4g
Total Fat: 0.46g
Fiber: 0.92g
*Good source of: Vitamin C (9.4mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular
nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good
source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily
Value.
The information presented in this website is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
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