Nutrition FAQ

Papaya Nutrition

Papayas are a tropical fruit grown on the Big island of Hawaii. Packed with vitamin C for immunity, vitamin A for eye health, and enzymes aiding digestion, they’re a delicious way to boost your health. Whether enjoyed fresh, blended into smoothies, or tossed into salads, papayas are a delicious way to fuel your body with essential nutrients.

Papaya FAQ

Are papayas nutritious?

Yes. Papayas are one of the most nutritious fruits available. Papayas are rich in enzymes that help with digestion and are a good source of calcium, potassium and Vitamins A, E and C. A single 200g serving provides almost twice the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin C. Go to Nutrition for more information.

Where can I get Hawaii grown papayas?

Hawaii papayas are picked tree ripe all year-round and distributed across the US, Canada, Japan and Germany. 

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What does the Hawaii papaya look like?

There are two basic types of papayas, the Hawaii papaya varieties and the Mexican variety. The Hawaii varieties are more pear-shaped, weigh about one pound each, and have a yellow skin when ripe. The flesh is golden yellow or red-orange, depending on the variety. The Mexican variety is much larger (weigh up to 20 pounds and be more than 15 inches long) with flesh that is reddish, and the flavor is less intense than the Hawaii types.

How do I select a papaya?

Papayas are typically harvested at ¼ to ½ color change and will continue to turn from green to full yellow when left at room temperature. The PERFECT papaya is best eaten at ¾ color.  Papaya should be refrigerated at ¾ color to prevent further color change and retain the perfect texture for up to several weeks.

How do I store the papaya before eating it?

Store at room temperature until papaya becomes ¾ color then, place into the refrigerator to preserve the texture and color.

How do I eat a papaya?

Papayas are usually eaten fresh as is or eaten with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. After washing the papaya, cut it lengthwise, scoop out the seeds and then eat it with a spoon.  The outer skin is not edible.  Go to Experience Delicious for suggestions on the multitude of ways to enjoy the delicious taste of Hawaii papaya.

Are Hawaii papaya's safe?

Hawaii papayas are grown in the USA using the strictest USDA guidelines and standards for safe food.

Are Hawaii papayas genetically engineered?

Yes, the “Rainbow” and “Sun-up” varieties are genetically engineered. Over a quarter billion pounds of these varieties have been consumed safely since the approval by the US government in 1998.