berry · Actinidiaceae

Kiwifruit

Actinidia deliciosa

Energy
58kcal
Native
Top Producer
CHN
Kiwifruit - a pile of kiwi fruit sitting on top of each other

Photo: VD Photography · Unsplash License

Origin & History

Where it comes from

Kiwifruit, or Chinese gooseberry, is the edible berry of several species of woody vines in the genus Actinidia. The most common cultivar group of kiwifruit is oval, about the size of a large hen's egg: 5–8 centimetres in length and 4.5–5.5 cm in diameter. Kiwifruit has a thin, fuzzy, fibrous, light brown skin that is tart but edible, and light green or golden flesh that contains rows of tiny black edible seeds. The fruit has a soft texture with a sweet and unique flavour.

World Production

Where it grows

4.4M
Tonnes · 2024
1
China, mainland48.75%
2
New Zealand15.12%
3
Italy10.50%
4
Greece7.75%
5
Iran (Islamic Republic of)6.67%

Source: FAO STAT — Crops and Livestock Products, 2024

Notable facts

Things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Kiwifruit, also known as Chinese gooseberry, is the edible berry of several species of woody vines.

  2. 02

    The most common cultivar group of kiwifruit is oval, typically 5–8 centimetres in length.

  3. 03

    Kiwifruit has a thin, fuzzy, fibrous, light brown skin that is tart but edible.

  4. 04

    The fruit's flesh is either light green or golden, containing rows of tiny black seeds.

  5. 05

    China is the top producer of kiwifruit, contributing to a world production of 4.4 million tonnes.

Properties

Health & nutrition

  • Kiwifruit is a good source of dietary fiber, providing 3.00g per 100g serving.
  • It is a rich source of Vitamin C, with 74.7mg found in every 100g portion.
  • Consuming kiwifruit may support overall health due to its beneficial nutrient profile.
  • The fruit also contains potassium, offering 198mg per 100g to your diet.
  • Including kiwifruit may contribute to a balanced intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

Informational only · not medical advice

In the kitchen

Culinary uses

Kiwifruit, an edible berry, is often enjoyed for its distinct taste and texture. The fruit's thin, fuzzy, light brown skin is tart but edible, allowing it to be consumed whole. Its vibrant light green or golden flesh, dotted with tiny black seeds, makes it a visually appealing ingredient. Kiwifruit is typically eaten fresh, either peeled or unpeeled, and can be incorporated into various culinary preparations.

Plates

Specimen photographs

Kiwifruit - sliced green and red fruit
Dan Bucko · Unsplash Licensesource
Kiwifruit - A close-up of many ripe kiwifruit arranged in rows.
Dare Artworks · Unsplash Licensesource