Why should pineapples be soaked in salt water?
Nov 23, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, soaking pineapple in salt water is primarily intended to reduce irritation to the mouth and improve the taste of the pineapple. In addition, salt has antibacterial and disinfecting properties; soaking pineapple in salt water can achieve a certain antibacterial and disinfecting effect, which helps ensure food hygiene and safety. Before consuming pineapple, it is recommended to peel and cut the pineapple into pieces, then soak it in salt water, rinse it thoroughly, and then consume.
Generally, soaking pineapple in salt water is primarily to reduce irritation to the mouth and improve the taste of the pineapple.
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that can break down proteins. When eating pineapple directly, bromelain may irritate the proteins on the surface of the oral mucosa and tongue, causing a prickling or numbing sensation in the mouth. When pineapple is soaked in salt water, the sodium ions in the salt water bind with bromelain, altering the enzyme's structure and thereby reducing its activity, which lessens the irritation to the mouth.
At the same time, salt water can regulate the osmotic pressure inside and outside the pineapple cells. After soaking in salt water, salt enters the pineapple cells, causing moisture within the cells to seep out and also allowing some acidic substances in the pineapple to be released, resulting in a more balanced flavor. Soaking in salt water can also help soften pineapple fibers, making the flesh more tender and juicy.
In addition, salt has antibacterial and disinfecting properties. Soaking pineapple in salt water can achieve a certain degree of sterilization and disinfection, helping to ensure food hygiene and safety. Before consuming pineapple, it is recommended to peel and cut the pineapple into pieces, soak it in salt water for a period of time, then rinse it thoroughly before eating.
