----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1) Where do cactus pears come from?
Cactus pears (Optunia species) are native to the semi-arid parts of Central America and the southern USA. Cactus pears, formerly called prickly pears, were first introduced to South Africa more than 300 years ago and were used as fences to protect crops against wild animals. The spineless "Burbank" varieties cultivated today were introduced into South Africa in 1974, mainly as a drought-tolerant crop for the arid Karoo regions. The excellent characteristics of their fruit has led to the cultivation of a number of these varieties for fresh fruit production.
2) What are the uses of cactus pears?
The cactus pear is extremely versatile and it can be used as:
a) A source of food for man and animals
b) It provides security (Impermeable fences)
c) The shallow root system prevents soil erosion
d) The production of by-products, e.g. jams, syrup, soap and mampoer
e) The young pads can be used as a green vegetable
f) The biggest enemy of the plant, the cochineal insect, is used in the manufacture of a natural food and textile dye
3) How many varieties exist?
There are more than 40 varieties, but the following four are the most popular:
a) Morado - a delicious white fruit with a very delicate taste
b) Gymno Carpo - has a yellow-orange colour, very sweet and is available in early December
c) Algerian - an exotic fruit with an attractive pink/red colour. Primarily used for export, but now locally available from the middle of December
- not to be confused with the old red cattle "prickly pear"
d) Skinners Court - a large, sweet green/white fruit, available middle of January
4) When are cactus pears available?
The season stretches from approximately middle December, when fruit from the Lowveld starts ripening, until the middle of March. Fruit from the Highveld area is available until late April. In the southern parts of the country fruit ripens much later than in the northern regions, which is from February until April. Limited quantities of fruit are now available during the winter months. Cactus pears can be kept in the peel at room temperature for up to two weeks. If refrigerated, it can be kept for long periods without losing any flavour, provided it is kept unpeeled. It is advisable to peel the fruit before eating.
5) When is a cactus pear ripe?
Cactus pears are often picked when over-ripe which tends to make the fruit taste mealy. The fruit should be picked when it starts developing colour and is well swollen. Cactus pears must be handled carefully as they bruise easily.
6) How to peal cactus pears:
Cactus pears are often described as spineless but fine, hairy spines may remain even after being mechanically dethorned. If possible, dethorned fruit should always be purchased.
a) Cut the "tips" either end of the fruit off
b) Slice the fruit, at skin depth, across its longest side
c) Peel the skin off
The fruit is ideal for slimming, rich in vitamin C and fibre, lowers blood cholesterol, can be refrigerated for up to one month and can be served cold. Recent research done by the University of Arizona shows that cactus pears lower blood cholesterol and thus decrease the risk of coronary disease. It is used in the medical (drugs against diabetes and high blood pressure) and the cosmetic industries (shampoos and soaps) utilize cactus pears with great success.
7) Composition and Nutritional Value
Composition per 100g gram edible portion.
Water: 87.69%
Kilojoules: 172
Vitamin C: 14mg
Protein: 0.7g
Fats: 0.5g
Carbohydrates (Glucose): 7.8g
Fibre: 1.8g
Potassium: 220mg
Magnesium: 85mg
Calcium: 56mg
Phosphorous: 24mg
8) Publications available from Association.
1) An information brochure for prospective producers is obtainable from the association for R30.00.
2) A recipe book with original and proven recipes is available for R12.00
Please go to contacts page to place your order via e-mail.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------