Zespri International (Asia) on Monday announced the arrival of Kiwifruit in India from the orchards of New Zealand, the country known for the fruit.
Kiwifruit is compared to apples as super fruit as it is rich in vitamins and minerals per gram and per calorie compared to 27 of most other fruits.
“Indians can now beat the summer heat with the juicy and nutritious Kiwifruit by adding it to their salads, smoothies and shakes,” said Ritesh Bhimani, market manager India, Zespri International.
According to international research published in the Journal of Nutritional Science in November 2012, even a recommended dietary intake of fruits and vegetables can result in Vitamin C levels deficiency, if the foods eaten do not include a high Vitamin C source. The report suggests food sources with high Vitamin C content, such as Kiwifruit, should be the cornerstone of a healthy diet. The research reveals a single Kiwifruit each day achieves ‘healthy’ Vitamin C levels, while two Kiwifruit a day ensure “optimal” Vitamin C levels.
Key research author associate professor Margreet Vissers of Otago University, Christchurch, noted that most other fruit and vegetables contain much less Vitamin C per serve, whereas one Kiwifruit delivers the full Recommended Daily Allowance and will contribute more Vitamin C than an orange. Vitamin C helps maintain muscle function. Muscles are the largest store of Vitamin C in our bodies and are very sensitive to changes in Vitamin C intake. The Vitamin C content in muscles tends to fall if the intake decreases below optimal levels and this can impact the functioning of muscles.
“In line with our campaign, ‘Healthy is Easy’ we are promoting the health benefits of the Kiwifruit that is known for its high Vitamin C and fibre content. For Indians, summer is synonymous with indulging in refreshing options to beat the heat and increasing fruit intake is one of the easiest ways to tackle the rising temperatures. Our consumers have access to the best quality Kiwifruit hand-picked from the vines in New Zealand so that they can enjoy the sweet and delicious taste but also load up on its health benefits,” said Bhimani.
Geetu Amarnani, consultant nutritionist, stated, “Indian summers can be harsh and people need to take extra precaution to prevent fatigue and dehydration. It is important to eat food items that are rich in Vitamin C, that can reduce the body’s heat and leave you feeling energised and refreshed. Kiwifruit has high Vitamin C, a highly effective antioxidant essential for a healthy diet and which helps in maintaining many aspects of our health. More importantly, Kiwifruit is an easy to use ingredient that can be cut into bite-sized pieces, eaten as a quick snack on-the-go or added to other dishes.”
