Benefits of eating certain fruit skins

Fruit skins, including apple and orange rinds, have been found to be a significant source of health-promoting phytonutrients. The most notable example is quercetin, which gives apples their signature hue and has been shown to be an antioxidant with potential anti-inflammatory properties. Other fruit skins that are rich in flavonoids include pears and kiwifruit.

Peeling fruit

Studies on the impact of fruits' skin show that the protective outer layer can contribute significantly to total fruit phytonutrients as much as 10%. You can also consume the outer peel for its full nutritional value without altering the taste or textural quality of the fruit's flesh.

Fruit skins can be eaten raw or cooked. The subcutaneous layer of the skin, with its high level of water and sugar, is a flavorful addition to salads and other raw dishes. The outer peel of fruits like kiwi, apples, pears and mangoes can be used as a direct substitute for zest in your cooking.