Tag: Pawpaw vs papaya

Based on research from Kentucky State University, a 100-gram serving of American pawpaw contains approximately 80 calories. However, a single paw paw fruit can vary dramatically in size, meaning its total calorie count is dependent on its weight and which type of fruit is being consumed.

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.

According to the Kentucky State University Pawpaw Research Project, a 100-gram serving of American pawpaw contains three times as much Vitamin C as an apple. These nutrient-dense fruits are a delicious and potentially beneficial addition to your diet, but many wonder, 'Is paw paw good for your health?'.

A crucial distinction exists because the term 'paw paw' is used for two completely different fruits: the North American pawpaw (*Asimina triloba*) and the tropical papaya (*Carica papaya*). The question, "Can you eat the seeds in paw paw fruit?" has two very different and important answers depending on which fruit you have in hand.

According to research from Kentucky State University, a 100-gram serving of pawpaw fruit can contain up to 39% of the daily value for iron. This makes the pawpaw a notably high source of this vital mineral compared to many other fruits.

In some regions, the names 'pawpaw' and 'papaya' are used for the same fruit, while in North America, 'pawpaw' refers to a completely different species. This causes widespread confusion, leaving many to wonder: which is healthier, pawpaw or papaya? This article settles the debate by comparing both fruits' distinct nutritional profiles.