Can pineapple be eaten after soaking in salt water for 5 minutes?

Under normal circumstances, pineapple can be eaten after soaking in salt water for 5 minutes, but it's important to ensure the soaking method is correct and applies to pineapples of moderate ripeness. If the pineapple is underripe or if an individual is sensitive to bromelain, it is advisable to extend the soaking time appropriately. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Pineapple contains bromelain, a substance that can irritate the oral mucosa, causing numbness and a stinging sensation. Salt water effectively inhibits the activity of bromelain, thereby reducing discomfort. For pineapples that are well-ripened with soft flesh, soaking in salt water for 5 minutes is sufficient to reduce enzyme activity and remove most of the irritating components, allowing consumption without significant discomfort.

However, if the pineapple is underripe and firm, or if an individual has particularly sensitive oral mucosa, 5 minutes of soaking may not be enough, and oral numbness may still occur after eating. In addition, during soaking, the salt water should completely cover the pineapple flesh; if only the surface comes into contact with salt water, the effect will be limited, negatively affecting the eating experience.

Before consuming, it's recommended to taste a small piece first to confirm there is no noticeable stinging sensation before proceeding to eat the rest. When enjoying pineapple regularly, besides soaking in salt water, you can also use heat treatment to deactivate bromelain. Also, pay attention to moderation to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort caused by excessive intake.