How to Choose Perfectly Ripe Kiwis

Ripe kiwis
Photo by Pranjall Kumar on Unsplash

Kiwis are one of those fruits that usually make a comeback during colder months, and they’re loaded with all sorts of healthy nutrients. You won’t go wrong if you add them to your daily menu this winter, and it all starts with picking the ones that are perfectly ripe.

Skin Color

Skin color will help you determine if kiwis are ripe or not. Kiwis that have goldish or dark brown skin are your best bet, and firmness is the main difference between them. If their skin is distinctly green, it’s highly likely they’re overripe.

Signs of Damage

After making sure that your kiwis are the right color, check their skin for any possible signs of damage. Kiwis that look shriveled or withered are past their expiration date, especially if they come with bruising, blemishes, and wrinkles. They usually indicate damage or moisture loss, but it’s possible to remove them before eating the fruit.

Squeeze Test

Like with most fruits, you can test the ripeness of kiwis by gently squeezing them. Overly soft or mushy kiwis are best avoided because they’re probably overripe. Perfectly ripe kiwis will yield to your squeeze, but if they’re still too hard just give them a couple of days to ripen.