Is papaw edible? Separating fact from fiction about this native fruit
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                Once a dietary staple for Native Americans and early settlers, the pawpaw, also spelled papaw, is often overlooked today. Yes, the flesh of a ripe papaw is edible and safe to eat, boasting a creamy, tropical flavor often compared to a blend of banana and mango. However, certain parts of the fruit are toxic, making safety precautions crucial.