The flesh of ripe fruits is initially hard,
but becomes soft as ripening progresses. The skin and flesh contain a latex that contains
proteases, and young fruits are sometimes used as meat tenderizers. Flesh from mature fruits
can also be cooked and consumed. Papayas also contain heterocyclic compounds similar
to piperazine and are sometimes consumed to protect from intestinal worms. Ripe fruits
of papaya have a very short shelf life. At present, kiwi fruit is widely cultivated around
the world. The fruit is a berry, 3–4 inches long, and is covered by a brownish skin. The
green flesh along with the seeds in ripened fruits can be eaten and tastes slightly acidic
and tart. Unripe fruits can be stored for 2–3 weeks. The kiwi fruits also contain proteases
and can be used as a meat tenderizer. Pomegranate, with a history of over 4,000 years, is
cultivated widely and is well known for its medicinal properties. The fruits are covered
with a leathery skin containing multiple chambers filled with juicy pulpy red crimson–
colored seeds that are sweet with slight sour tart taste. The skin contains proanthocyanidins
and polyphenols having very strong antioxidant activity. Alhough not consumed, the skin
is commonly used in traditional medicine in India. Pomegranates have good postharvest
shelf life (2–3 weeks at RT) and are easy to handle. Guava is becoming more popular with
several new varieties. The ripe fruits have a pleasant flavor and sweet taste. The seeds are
hard, and new seedless varieties are being cultivated. The ripe fruits have a very short shelf
life. Some varieties have a red-colored interior like a melon and are rich in carotenoids.
Mango has become an increasingly accepted fruit in the Western world. Several varieties