Pepino Melon

Family: Solanaceae
Genus: Solanum
Other Names: Sweet pepino
Botanical Name: Solanum muricatum
Condition: Fresh
Grade: A
Certification: GLOBALG.A.P. (in process)
Place of Origin: Ecuador
Native of: The Andean region
Maturity: 85% - 90%
Brix level: 6-8°
Availability: All year round
Storage: 20 days
Storage temp: 10° Celsius, (50° F)
Taste: Medium sweet
Weight of each box: 2.8 kilograms (6.17 lb.)
Weight of each fruit: Between 150 and 350 grams
Packaging: 12, 16, and 20 fruits per box
Popular for: Being easy to combine with
vegetables, fruits, meats and
fish
Delivery details: Approximately 15 days after
receiving the order
Tasting like melon and pear, this sweet fruit is very common in Colombia, Peru, Chile, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The fruit is yellow color, oval shape, and will develop purple stripes when ripe. It grows at altitudes between 1000 and 3000 meters above sea level.
The pepino melon we produce has a particular flavor and sweetness, perhaps because it grows on the slopes of the Tungurahua volcano.
Typically the sweet pepino is enjoyed raw, just cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. It is very useful as a garnish and combined with papaya, banana, or cantaloupe makes tasty sorbets. In syrup or served with ice cream it makes a healthy dessert.Eating sweet pepino regularly regulates the blood pressure, prevents diabetes and the formation of kidney stones, boosts the immune system and lowers cholesterol. However, for some people the most important property is that sweet pepino eliminates constipation and prevents colon cancer.
Pepino is rich in vitamins A and C. It’s also a good source of calcium, and potassium.
Vitamin A is important for good vision, the immune system, and reproduction.
Vitamin C, besides being a powerful antioxidant, it helps to regenerate tissues, aids in the absorption of iron, decreases bad cholesterol, and prevents wrinkles.
About 99% of the total calcium in our bodies is in our teeth and bones. Since every day we lose it, it is essential to replenish this mineral from the food we eat, other way it will be taken from our bones.
A diet rich in potassium lowers the blood pressure because it counteracts the tendency of our bodies to store water produced by NaCl.
Finally, since the pepino is low in sugar, it is a safe food for diabetics and a fruit to be considered on a weight reduction diet.