Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit popular for its unique look and taste. The most common varieties have a vibrant pink or yellow peel with green scales resembling a dragon. When cut open, dragon fruit can be white or red inside with tiny black seeds scattered throughout the flesh.
However, some people have discovered their dragon fruit to have a deep purple interior instead of the typical colors. So what causes dragon fruit to turn purple inside?
What Determines Dragon Fruit Color
Dragon fruit gets its interior color from antioxidant pigments called betacyanins. There are two main types of betacyanins that create the red-purple hues in plants:
- Betanin – Produces bright red pigments
- Isobetanin – Produces purple-red pigments
The specific ratio and concentration of these two betacyanins determine the exact interior color of dragon fruit. A higher amount of isobetanin leads to a deeper purple-red color.
Why Would a Dragon Fruit Turn Purple?
There are a few reasons why your dragon fruit may develop a purple interior:
Genetics
Some dragon fruit varieties are genetically predisposed to having purple flesh. For example, the ‘Philippine Beauty’ cultivar consistently produces fruit with deep purple insides. The genetics of the plant determine how much of the isobetanin pigment is present in the fruit.
Growing Conditions
Environmental factors can also impact betacyanin levels and cause purple coloration. Conditions like:
- High temperatures
- Drought stress
- Intense sunlight exposure
Can promote higher isobetanin production and lead to purple-red interiors. The dragon fruit plant amps up betacyanin synthesis to protect the fruit from environmental stresses.
Overripening
As dragon fruit overripens and starts decaying, chemical changes occur that shift betacyanin ratios. Degrading betanins and the synthesis of new pigments result in more purple and brown hues.
Is Purple Dragon Fruit Safe to Eat?
Many people wonder if purple dragon fruit is safe or healthy to eat. The good news is that the purple color alone does not indicate spoilage or make it unsafe. Here are a few key points:
- The purple color comes from natural plant pigments, not mold or artificial colors.
- Overripe fruit with some purple is generally still edible, but avoid if mold is present.
- Purple dragon fruit has the same nutrition and health benefits as red or white varieties.
- The antioxidant levels may be even higher in purple fruit.
However, as with any produce, you should discard dragon fruit that is extremely mushy, moldy or smells unpleasant. Use common sense – when in doubt, throw it out.
Taste and Texture
In terms of flavor and texture, purple dragon fruit is quite similar to red varieties. Expect it to be:
- Sweet and mild, akin to kiwi or pear
- Soft, juicy flesh with tiny edible seeds
- Potentially richer in taste due to higher antioxidant content
The interior color does not make much difference for ripened, fresh dragon fruit. However, overripe purple fruit may start losing its firmness and develop a fermented taste.
Uses for Purple Dragon Fruit
You can use dragon fruit with a purple interior in all the same ways as other colors. Here are some of the most popular uses:
- Eat raw – slice up for salads, snacks, or desserts
- Blend into smoothies, juices, sorbets
- Make jam, coulis, or pickled products
- Bake into tarts, cakes, or other treats
- Use as a natural food coloring
The vivid purple flesh makes for an eye-catching addition to many foods and beverages. Its color may stain light surfaces, so take care when preparing.
Nutrition Facts
Dragon fruit is packed with beneficial vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here is how purple dragon fruit stacks up nutritionally (per 1 cup):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Dietary fiber | 3g |
| Vitamin C | 18% DV |
| Iron | 4% DV |
| Betalains | 500-600mg |
Betalains like betanin and isobetanin have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the body.
Is Purple More Nutritious?
Some sources claim that purple dragon fruit is more nutritious than other colors, but more research is needed. Possible benefits include:
- Higher antioxidant levels from betalain pigments
- Increased vitamin C content
- More iron and polyphenols
However, the extent of these benefits is unclear. All dragon fruit colors provide plentiful nutrition and health value.
Finding Purple Dragon Fruit
Since most commercially grown dragon fruit is red-fleshed, purple varieties can be tricky to find in stores. Here are some tips:
- Check specialty/Asian markets for exotic produce
- Seek out farmers markets and fruit stands
- Order from specialty growers online
- Grow your own ‘Philippine Beauty’ or other purple-fleshed cultivars
With some searching, you should be able to get your hands on this unique and nutritious fruit. Try using it to make a stunning purple smoothie bowl or fruit salad.
Conclusion
In the end, a purple color inside your dragon fruit is no cause for concern. It simply indicates higher levels of antioxidant pigments. While not as common, purple dragon fruit is just as edible and nutritious as other colors. Enjoy its exotic look and mild sweet flavor in smoothies, snacks, and desserts.
With its dense nutrition and fiber, dragon fruit is an excellent addition to a healthy diet, regardless of its flesh color. So don’t hesitate to slice open that purple pitaya and appreciate its tropical beauty.