Papaya

Carica papaya

fruit

A large fruit with melting orange flesh and black seeds, from a tropical tree native to southern Mexico. 100 g provide 61 mg of vitamin C, with beta-carotene and lycopene.

Origin

Central America

Season (United States)

all year round · grows in your region

Preparation

The seeds are eaten, peppery, but in moderation; the skin is left.

Molecules

Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lycopene · Beta-cryptoxanthin · Vitamin C

Did you know?

The whole plant contains papain, an enzyme that breaks down proteins; and its genus name, Carica, meant a dried fig from Caria in Latin.