When you come home after a productive day at school, what is the first thing you do? Some children might ride their bikes and have fun in the neighborhood. Others might start their homework right away, so they can have the rest of the evening free to read or play with friends.
However, many kids have one specific place in mind as soon as they enter through the front door: the kitchen. Why the kitchen? Because that’s where the refrigerator and cupboards full of after-school snacks are located!
If you are someone who enjoys snacking after school, it is important to make healthy choices. Instead of soda and chips, opt for water and a fresh piece of fruit instead. There’s nothing quite like taking a bite into a delicious apple, a refreshing orange, or a juicy peach.
Do you like fresh peaches? Fans of the peach, scientifically known as Prunus persica, love its juicy flesh that is packed with sweet flavor. When you bite into a fresh peach, you also experience the unique sensation of its fuzzy, red-orange skin. Why are peaches naturally fuzzy? Did they forget to shave?
Scientists who have studied peaches are not exactly sure why they have fuzzy skin, but they have developed a few theories over time. For instance, some scientists believe that the fuzz might help protect the delicate skin of the peach from insects.
Compared to the skin of other fruits like apples, oranges, and bananas, peaches have very thin and delicate skin. This makes them highly susceptible to bruising and rotting. This poses a challenge for peach farmers who need to sell their crops quickly since peaches are usually only good for a couple of weeks after being harvested.
Peach farmers will tell you that there are plenty of insects willing to brave the prickly fuzz of a peach to feast on its sugary insides. However, some scientists believe that the fuzz deters certain insects that might otherwise target peaches. Other scientists suggest that the fuzz protects peaches from water.
Heavy rainfall and dew can easily saturate the thin skin of a peach, weakening it and allowing bacteria to cause the fruit to rot. Peach fuzz helps collect water droplets, keeping them away from the skin.
Experts believe that peaches originally came from China. Today, they remain a popular fruit in the United States and around the world. In the U.S., the state most commonly associated with peaches is Georgia. However, Georgia is only the third largest peach producer in the country. California grows the most peaches, followed by South Carolina.
If you search for fresh peaches at your local grocery store, you might find a very similar fruit right next to it. It has similar color, size, and taste, but it lacks fuzz. What did you find? A nectarine!
Nectarines belong to the same species as peaches. While peaches have a dominant gene that produces their fuzzy skin, nectarines have a recessive gene that results in smooth, fuzz-free skin. Without the protective fuzz, nectarines are more prone to bruising and rotting compared to their fuzzy counterparts.
Give It a Try
We hope you enjoyed learning about peaches! Be sure to try out the following activities with a friend or family member:
- Invite an adult family member or friend to take you on a trip to a local grocery store. Go directly to the fresh fruit section and look for fresh peaches and nectarines. Once you find both, compare their skin. Can you observe and feel the difference? If possible, buy a few of each fruit and bring them home for a side-by-side taste test!
- During certain times of the year, it may be difficult to find fresh peaches. However, you can always find canned or frozen peaches year-round. Ask an adult to accompany you to a local grocery store and explore their selection of canned and frozen peaches. How many different varieties can you find? What distinguishes the various types of peaches? Do you have a preference for canned, frozen, or fresh peaches? Why?
- If you have a fondness for peaches, then you will definitely enjoy some of the delightful recipes you can create using peaches. Request the assistance of a friend or family member and together, experiment with one or more of the following tasty recipes: + Peaches and Cream Pops + Peach Pie Pancakes + Easy Peach Fruit Smoothie + Peach Pie Pops
Sources of Wonder
- https://thescooponbaking.wordpress.com/2015/08/13/why-are-peaches-fuzzy/
- http://www.thekitchn.com/whats-the-difference-between-peaches-and-nectarines-221699
- http://capayvalleyfarmshop.com/blog/farmnews/ten-tasty-facts-you-probably-didnt-know-about-the-peach/
- http://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2012/08/16/158525591/peaches-beautiful-and-fleeting-thanks-to-fuzzy-thin-skin
- http://www.threespringsfruitfarm.com/blog/ask-a-grower-vol-vii-why-are-peaches-fuzzy
FAQ
1. Why are peaches fuzzy?
The fuzz on peaches serves as a form of protection for the fruit. It helps to reduce water loss and prevent damage from insects and other pests. The fuzz also acts as insulation, regulating the temperature of the peach. Additionally, the fuzz provides a tactile sensation when handling the fruit, making it easier to grip and handle without slipping.
2. Do all peaches have fuzz?
No, not all peaches have fuzz. There are different varieties of peaches, and some have smooth skin instead of fuzz. These peaches are known as “nectarines.” Nectarines are essentially the same species as peaches, but they lack the gene that produces the fuzz. So, while peaches usually have fuzz, nectarines have smooth skin.
3. Can you remove the fuzz from peaches?
Yes, you can remove the fuzz from peaches if desired. To remove the fuzz, you can gently rub the peach under running water or use a soft brush to scrub it. However, keep in mind that the fuzz is natural and serves a purpose, so removing it may affect the texture and appearance of the fruit. Some people prefer the texture of a fuzz-free peach, while others enjoy the natural fuzziness.
4. Are there any benefits to eating the peach fuzz?
While the peach fuzz is not typically eaten, it is safe to consume if you prefer to do so. The fuzz itself does not provide any significant nutritional benefits, but it is not harmful either. However, some people may find the texture or taste of the fuzz unpleasant. If you do choose to eat the fuzz, make sure to wash the peaches thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides that may be present on the skin.
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