Eating Fruit From Tree [Is It Safe Or Just A Viral Stunt?]

If you think birds are only living creatures feeding on the bright, fresh fruit from the tree, that’s far from the truth.

People have now started eating fruit directly from tree following some viral social media trends.

Besides, you have to be a little careful about the nature of the fruit and its edibility before you start devouring them.

Is It Safe To Eat Fruit From Trees?

Many of us might have landed here following the recent viral videos of creators cutting through a fruit on the tree and eating them straight. Even without plucking them.

Firstly, it is difficult to eat some fruit directly from the tree. Fruits like Lychee have thin, inedible skin and a large seed, making eating impractical.

While Pomegranate also has a hard outer rind and numerous seeds by juicy aril. You first need to open the fruit and then eat the arils rather than consuming the entire fruit. 

Further, fruit tree also produces sap that may cause skin irritation, like in some varieties of Mango and Papaya. 

Similarly, the fruit may have a residue of chemicals and pesticides. But if you have grown the tree, you are assured about the direct edibility.

However, pest and disease infestation on the fruit is always a risk. And birds are most likely to peck on the fruit. 

In such cases, it is not safe to be eating fruit directly from the tree.

Despite being a fruit, some may carry toxic chemica like the saponin, and calcium oxalate crystals, which are unsafe for consumption.

Benefits of Eating Fruit Straight From Tree

There is no comparison of the freshness and taste of fruit right out of the tree.

But along with the top-notch taste, eating fruit straight from the tree offers high nutritional benefits. Generally, fruits are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidant, contributing to a healthy diet.

For instance, vitamin-rich Avocado (C, E, K & B6), dietary fiber and zinc-rich Coconut, and potassium-rich Banana.

This is because the enzyme in fruits breaks down the nutrients like vitamin C and Vitamin B2 due to exposure to light and high temperatures during storage and transportation. 

Further, you’ll save yourself from all the preservatives or chemicals like sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and sodium benzoate, having severe health problems like trouble breathing.

The purpose of the chemicals is to prevent discoloration, browning, and microbial growth, making the fruit likable for longer periods. 

Moreover, fruits in trees have high water content, which can help you stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.

How to Eat Fruit From A Tree? [Saftey Tips]

Picking and savoring fruit directly from the tree can evoke a sense of joy and satisfaction. But a little mindfulness is necessary to keep away the hazardous effect. 

So, let’s have a look at the safe way to eat fruit from a tree.

• Identify if the fruit is safe to eat and does not possess toxins. If you are not familiar with the fruit, make sure to seek advice from local experts.
• Look for mature ripe fruit with full shape and vibrant color, as mature fruit tastes better. 
• Carefully inspect the fruit for any signs of molds, pests, and damage by the bird’s peck. Do not try consuming such fruit.
• For sap-producing plants, make sure to clean the sap with clean water to prevent any allergic reaction. Not just sap-producing, but clean every fruit before you chew on it. 
• Use vinegar or baking soda to remove any residue of pesticides and chemicals and ensure proper cleanliness in Strawberries and Blueberries. 
• If you have sensitive skin, put on your gardening gloves for a layer of safety before reaching the fruit.