Organic Papaya 1pc Holland/Australia

Origin: Thailand/Malaysia
Status: Organic
Certification: NASAA/TAS
Highlights: Papayas offer not only the luscious taste and sunlit colour of the tropics, but are also rich sources of antioxidant nutrients such as fat soluble carotenes, water soluble vitamins B and C, flavonoids, minerals, potassium, magnesium and beneficial fibre.

The papaya (Carica papaya) 番木瓜 Fān mù guā is thought to have originated in Central America, but is now widely grown in the tropical regions of Australia, Hawaii and S. E. Asia. Unfortunately, due to susceptibility to disease, many papaya varieties have been genetically modified. So to really benefit from the health boosting phytonutrients this tropical fruit offers, the organic variety should always be chosen.

To to enjoy its sweet juicy flavour, wait until the papaya is a little soft to the touch. Interestingly Papaya seeds are edible, and have a peppery flavour. They too contain beneficial polyphenol and flavonoid antioxidants which protect against oxidative stress and degenerative disease. Papayas that are totally green and unripe may be used  for cooking soup or in green papaya salad.