Kiwi and pineapple are often mistakenly thought to be closely related due to their similar textures and tropical appearance. Despite both being refreshing additions to the grocery aisle, they are not closely related. Their similarities are purely coincidental, and they belong to entirely separate plant lineages. The differences between them span their scientific classification, unique chemical compositions, and the distinct environments in which they grow.
Scientific Classification and Relatedness
The Linnaean system of classification demonstrates the vast botanical distance between these two fruits. Pineapple, known scientifically as Ananas comosus, belongs to the Bromeliaceae family, which is part of the Order Poales. The kiwifruit, Actinidia deliciosa, is classified into the Actinidiaceae family, which is placed within the Order Ericales. This separation at the Order level indicates that their last shared common ancestor is extremely distant in evolutionary history. To put this in perspective, the division between their Orders is greater than the difference between a cat and a dog. Kiwi plants are perennial, woody, climbing vines, a growth habit distinct from the low, herbaceous nature of the pineapple plant.
Unique Enzymes and Chemical Differences
The fruits differ in the specialized enzymes they produce, which are responsible for the slight tingling or irritation some people feel when eating them raw. Pineapple contains a group of proteolytic enzymes known collectively as bromelain. This enzyme mixture is effective at breaking down proteins, which is why fresh pineapple juice is often used as a meat tenderizer. Kiwifruit contains its own unique proteolytic enzyme called actinidin. Like bromelain, actinidin helps break down dietary proteins and is utilized as a digestive aid. The protein-digesting action of both enzymes is quickly neutralized by heat, explaining why canned or cooked versions of the fruits do not produce the same tenderizing or irritating effect.
Global Origins and Growing Environments
The fruits originate from and thrive in entirely different geographic and climatic zones, reinforcing their separate evolutionary paths. The pineapple is indigenous to the tropical regions of South America, specifically between southern Brazil and Paraguay. It grows as a low-lying, herbaceous plant, requiring a consistently warm, tropical climate with moderate humidity. In contrast, kiwifruit is native to central and eastern China, where it was historically known as the Chinese gooseberry. The kiwi plant grows as a woody, deciduous vine that requires a more temperate climate, needing cool winters and hot summers to flourish. While New Zealand popularized the commercial cultivation of the fruit, its true home is in the mountainous regions of Asia.