The golden kiwi is generally considered the sweetest type of kiwi. Though the green kiwi provides a tangy-sweet experience, the golden variety offers a smoother, consistently sweet flavor. The difference is due to the higher fructose content in the golden kiwi.
The Golden Kiwi: A Tropical Delight
Golden kiwis (Actinidia chinensis) have a less acidic and more tropical flavor, with hints of mango and berry. They are hairless, with bronze-colored skin and vibrant yellow flesh with a smaller white core and fewer seeds. Golden kiwis have a softer, more succulent texture compared to green kiwis.
The Classic Green Kiwi: Zesty and Tangy
The green kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) is known for its bright green flesh and fuzzy brown skin. It has a tangy flavor, similar to pineapple and citrus. The texture is firmer and more coarse than that of the golden kiwi. While golden kiwis are bred for sweetness, green kiwis are prized for a balance of sweet and tart, and they are also richer in fiber.
Golden vs. Green Kiwi: A Comparison
| Feature | Golden Kiwi (e.g., SunGold) | Green Kiwi (e.g., Hayward) |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Significantly sweeter with tropical notes of mango and berry. | Tangy-sweet, with a more acidic and zesty taste. |
| Texture | Softer and smoother when ripe. | Firmer and slightly more coarse. |
| Skin | Smooth, hairless, and edible. | Fuzzy, fibrous, and brown; also edible but less palatable for most. |
| Flesh Color | Vibrant yellow to golden. | Bright green. |
| Nutritional Edge | Nearly double the Vitamin C; richer in folate. | Higher in dietary fiber; more potassium. |
| Best For | Desserts, smoothies where sweetness is desired, or eating whole. | Smoothies, salads, meat tenderizing due to enzyme activity. |
How to Choose and Ripen Kiwis
To select a ripe kiwi, press the fruit gently. If it yields slightly, it's ready to eat. If it is hard, it needs more time to ripen. Most golden kiwis are sold ripe. You may need to ripen green kiwis at home on the counter. To speed this process, put them in a paper bag with an ethylene-producing fruit like a banana or apple. Once ripe, store both varieties in the refrigerator to slow down ripening.
Popularity of Golden Kiwis
The golden kiwi is a result of deliberate breeding programs. The sweeter flavor and smoother skin have attracted a wider audience. Brands like Zespri have successfully marketed their SunGold variety, highlighting its flavor and high Vitamin C content, which often fetches a premium price. The development of disease-resistant cultivars, such as Gold3, has also increased the golden kiwi's popularity.
Conclusion
Golden kiwis are the sweetest color, offering a softer texture and a more tropical flavor compared to their tangy green counterparts. Which kiwi is best depends on your personal taste and what you plan to use the fruit for. Whether you prefer a green or golden kiwi, both are delicious and packed with nutrients. Consider trying both to discover which you prefer.
