Papaya

Definition

Papayas are the fruit of the Carica papaya tree. The fruits are typically long, tapered-oval shaped with soft pink-orange or yellow flesh and an inner cavity filled with black seeds.

Health considerations

Papaya is a source of folate and vitamin C, and contains some magnesium, and vitamin A. Papaya contains lycopene and polyphenols. There has been suggestion that consumption of large quantities of green, unripe papaya may induce miscarriage. Papayas are rich in papain. See: Lycopene, Papain.

Keep in mind

Many papayas are genetically modified to be resistant to a virus which can decimate crops. Individuals allergic to latex may be sensitive to papain.

May be found in

Pickled, condiments, fruit juice, fruit smoothies, sold as is

References

Food and Chemical Toxicology

Nutrition Data

Latex Allergy Resources

Alternative Spellings and Names

Papaw, pawpaw