Customs data shows the UK imported more than 168,000 tonnes of pineapples in 2017 compared with 148,000 tonnes in 2016, an increase of almost 14%. The vast majority came from Costa Rica, which has more than trebled its production of the fruit over the last 15 years, according to The Times.
Tesco’s fresh pineapple buyer Morgan Jaquemet said: “Pineapples have become the fruit taste of the moment and could soon rival the avocado as a once niche fruit suddenly gaining mainstream popularity.
“In the last few years we have seen demand jump because of the fruit’s rising popularity as a versatile and healthy food.”
Britons spent £44m on pineapples over the last 12 months, compared to the £175m worth of avocados purchased, according to The Guardian.
Tesco reported demand for pineapple juice had increased by more than a fifth over the last 12 months and sales of tinned pineapple chunks were up 5%.