Is the Middle of a Pineapple Good to Eat? What You Need to Know

November 19, 2025 •

3 min read

According to Dole, a global leader in fresh fruit, the core of a pineapple is not only edible but also packed with beneficial ingredients. For years, many people have discarded this part of the fruit due to its fibrous texture, but understanding the nutritional value and preparation methods for the middle of a pineapple can help reduce food waste and boost your diet.

Quick Summary

The fibrous center of a pineapple is safe and nutritious, containing concentrated enzymes like bromelain, plus fiber and vitamin C. While tougher than the outer flesh, it can be softened through cooking, blending, or grating and incorporated into various recipes to maximize nutrients and minimize waste. Different preparation methods yield different textures and culinary uses.

Key Points

Edible and Nutritious: The pineapple core is safe to eat and packed with vitamins and minerals.
Rich in Bromelain: It contains a high concentration of bromelain, a natural anti-inflammatory enzyme.
Excellent Source of Fiber: Its fibrous texture provides a great boost of dietary fiber, which is good for digestion.
Preparation is Key: The core is tough when raw, but can be softened by boiling, blending, or grilling.
Versatile Ingredient: It can be used in smoothies, teas, purees, and as a meat tenderizer.

Can You Eat the Tough Pineapple Core?

Yes, you can eat the tough, middle part of a pineapple, commonly known as the core. While it's significantly harder and more fibrous than the surrounding juicy flesh, the core is completely edible and contains a high concentration of nutrients. The main reason many people don't eat it is due to its less desirable texture and slightly more bitter taste. However, by preparing it correctly, you can unlock its health benefits and enjoy a flavorful, resourceful ingredient.

The Nutritional Powerhouse Within the Core

Don't let its tough exterior fool you; the pineapple core is a nutritional goldmine. Just like the flesh, it's rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but it contains a particularly high concentration of the enzyme bromelain. This enzyme offers several health benefits that are worth including in your diet.

Health Benefits of the Pineapple Core

Rich in Fiber: The fibrous nature of the core contributes to its high fiber content. This is excellent for digestive health, helping to regulate bowel movements and promote a healthy gut.
High in Bromelain: The core is the most concentrated source of bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme that aids in breaking down protein. Bromelain has potent anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce pain and swelling, especially after injury or surgery.
Packed with Vitamin C: Like the rest of the pineapple, the core is a great source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps combat cell damage and supports a strong immune system.
May Aid Digestion: By helping to break down proteins, the bromelain in the core can improve digestion, particularly for those with certain digestive issues.

How to Make Pineapple Core Palatable

Since the raw core is too tough for most to enjoy, preparing it is key. Here are several methods to soften and incorporate the core into your meals:

Blend into Smoothies: This is one of the most popular and easiest methods. Slice and freeze the core, then toss a few pieces into your favorite smoothie for added fiber and nutrients without altering the flavor significantly.
Boil and Purée: For a softer texture, briefly boil the core in water until it becomes more pliable. Afterward, purée it into a smooth liquid that can be added to soups, cocktails, or used as a base for sorbet.
Grate for Toppings: Use a box grater to shred the raw core into fine pieces. This grated pineapple can be sprinkled over salads, oatmeal, or yogurt for a refreshing, crunchy topping.
Infuse Teas and Syrups: Simmer the core along with some pineapple skin, spices (like ginger or cinnamon), and water to create a flavorful and nutrient-rich tea or syrup. You can sweeten it with honey or maple syrup to taste.
Grill for a Smoky Flavor: Grilling the core can soften it and bring out its sweetness, adding a delicious smoky dimension. Grilled core slices can be a unique side dish or garnish.
Make Crisps: Slice the core thinly and dehydrate or bake at a very low temperature to create crunchy, healthy pineapple crisps.

Comparison: Pineapple Core vs. Flesh


Feature	Pineapple Core	Pineapple Flesh
Texture	Hard, fibrous, and chewy	Soft, juicy, and tender
Sweetness	Less sweet and slightly more bitter	Very sweet and tropical
Bromelain Content	Very high concentration	Lower concentration
Fiber Content	Higher, especially insoluble fiber	Moderate
Best for Eating Raw	Not recommended due to toughness	Ideal for raw consumption
Ideal Preparation	Cooked, blended, or grated	Fresh, grilled, or canned

Putting Your Pineapple Core to Use

Making use of the core is a smart way to practice zero-waste cooking. By using the core, you not only gain extra nutrients but also stretch your ingredients further. For example, the core can be used to tenderize meat for marinades due to its high bromelain content. It can also add a subtle pineapple essence to water or sparkling drinks. Don't discard it—repurpose it! For inspiration, websites like wikiHow offer a range of creative recipes.

Conclusion

In summary, the middle of a pineapple is not only safe to eat but is a concentrated source of nutrients like fiber and the powerful enzyme bromelain. While its tough texture makes it unappealing to eat raw, simple preparation methods like blending, cooking, or grating can make it an excellent addition to your diet. By utilizing the entire fruit, you can enjoy maximum flavor and health benefits while minimizing food waste. Next time you cut a pineapple, think twice before throwing away the core—it's an opportunity for a healthier, more resourceful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

The middle of a pineapple, or the core, is the stem of the fruit. This makes it much denser and more fibrous than the sweet, fleshy part of the fruit.

Yes, you can eat it raw, but it is not recommended for most people due to its tough, fibrous, and chewy texture. Most find it more palatable when processed or cooked.

Bromelain is a group of enzymes found in pineapple, especially concentrated in the core. It's known for its anti-inflammatory properties, digestive aid, and ability to break down proteins.

An easy and effective way to use the core is to freeze sliced pieces and add them to your smoothies. This makes it easier to blend and adds nutrients and flavor.

Canned pineapple contains much less bromelain than fresh pineapple. This is because the enzyme is sensitive to heat and much of it is destroyed during the canning process.

When consumed in moderation, the core is safe. However, due to its high acidity and bromelain content, eating excessive amounts could cause mouth irritation or digestive upset in sensitive individuals.

Yes, you can use the core to make a delicious and healthy tea. Simply simmer the core and skin with water and spices like ginger or cinnamon for about 20-30 minutes, then strain.