2019 ASHS Annual Conference

Pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.) is an important fruit crop in Taiwan. The adoption of pineapple varieties and farm practices have changed and increased pineapple cultivation. Taiwan is located at the tropical and subtropical boundary, where pineapples can be grown and harvested year-round. It is known that quality of pineapple is highly affected with changes in climate during different seasons. Recent dietary changes, high labor costs and variability in climatic factors have been challenging pineapple production in Taiwan. In the past 50 years, the ‘Smooth Cayenne’ pineapple variety was mainly produced for canned fruits. In line with global trade trends, the Taiwanese canned pineapple industry has been replaced by the fresh fruit market. Nowadays, the Taiwanese varieties ‘Tainung No.16’, ‘Tainung No.17’, and ‘Tainung No.20’ are mainly grown in southern Taiwan. Data has revealed the superior growth and quality of 'Tainung No.17'. Special fragrant flavor and delicate texture make ‘Tainung No.17’ as the most popular and promising variety for consumers and farmers. Proper adoption of pineapple varieties is critical for maintaining fruit quality and food security under changing climatic conditions. More research is needed on pineapple varieties to allow Taiwan to continue adapting to the national consumption pattern.