A pear-shaped fruit, also known as the cactus pear, that is produced from the tropical cactus plant known as the Prickly Pear cactus. his fruit contains approximately 85% water, 15% sugar, 0.3% ash, and less than 1% protein. The fruit begins as a flower, growing out from the cactus leaf pad or "paddle," and maturing into an oval shaped, sweet tasting fruit.
The prickly pear fruit can be considered as "the bridge of life" because it is the only food and water resource for animals during the long dry seasons in the deserts.
Nutritional Value
The flesh is a good source of minerals and several types of amino acids (alanine, arginine, and asparagine). Important vitamins include vitamin C (ascorbic acid), E, K, and beta-carotenes. Flavonoids, effective antioxidants, are another important constituent. The betalain pigments are responsible for the colors of the fruit and also have antioxidant properties.
