King's College London study finds high fiber in fruit and vegetable scraps

A study conducted by researchers at King's College London, published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, reveals that parts of fruits and vegetables typically discarded, such as peels, seeds, and stems, often contain significantly higher levels of dietary fiber than the flesh.

The research analyzed 12 different food items, including pineapple, watermelon, pumpkin, kiwi, and cauliflower. Notably, the peel and core of a pineapple were found to contain approximately five times more fiber than the edible fruit. Watermelon rinds and pumpkin seeds also showed high fiber concentrations, contributing to a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular diseases and colorectal cancer.

Project leader Dr. Rachel Gibson noted that these discarded parts represent between 25 and 48 percent of the total weight of the produce, leading to both nutritional and financial losses. While the study highlights the benefits of a “root-to-tip” eating approach to improve gut health and stabilize blood sugar, researchers cautioned that further investigation is needed regarding the potential presence of pesticides or heavy metals in these outer layers.