Azorean pineapples are a local gem unique to São Miguel Island, where they are grown in greenhouses. In the 19th century, a fungus devastated the island’s orange groves, prompting farmers to turn to pineapple cultivation as an economic alternative.
This specialized greenhouse farming, using specific techniques, takes 24 months to produce Azorean pineapples with perfectly sweet flavor. In comparison, in market leaders like Costa Rica and Brazil, pineapples are grown outdoors and harvested in just 13 months, though they are considerably larger in size.
The meticulous cultivation and lengthy process contribute to the average price of €8 per kilo for Azorean pineapple, compared to around €3 per kilo for South American pineapple in Portugal. This price difference reflects not only the distinctive quality and flavor of the Azorean variety, but also the care and dedication of local farmers in producing this unique gem of the Azores.
Visit one of the greenhouses in Ponta Delgada:
Plantação de Ananás dos Açores
R. das Laranjeiras, 9500-317
ananasdosacores.pt
Plantação de Ananás A. Arruda
R. Dr. Augusto Arruda, 9500-454
ananasesarruda.com
Ananás Santo António
R. Jose Manuel Bernardo Cabral, 9500-450
facebook.com/AnanasesSantoAntonio
You can also visit the Centro de Interpretação da Cultura do Ananás, (Pineapple Culture Interpretation Center) a space that tells the story of pineapple cultivation in an engaging way, with the mission of preserving and promoting local values and traditions.
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