N is for …

Nectarine

Fun Facts

  • Nectarines get their name from ‘nectar’, which was the sweet fruit that the gods ate.
  • Nectarines and roses are from the same family.
  • They grow on trees which are normally between 5 and 7 metres tall.
  • Different types of nectarines have different colour flesh. They are normally yellow, reddish or white in colour.
  • Nectarines are a stone fruit as they have a large seed in the centre.

Where do we come from?

Nectarines were first grown in China but now they are grown all around the world. Whilst China still grows the most nectarines, other countries such as Spain, Italy, Greece, America and Turkey also are also large producers. Iran, Chile, Argentina and Turkey also grow nectarines as part of the global trade.

Test yourself! Can you locate all of these countries on the map?

We are good for you!

Like all other fruits and vegetables nectarines are low in sodium, calories and fats and they are also a good source of dietary fibre. However, nectarines are especially good for you because …

  • They contain lots of vitamin C which is good for you skin, bones and blood.
  • They contain lots of vitamin A which is good for your skin and your immune system.

Did you know …

… people often get confused between nectarines and peaches but here is the difference – whilst they both have a similar shape, size, colour and seed they have very different smells, textures and flavours. The most obvious way to remember is that nectarines have a smooth skin, whereas peaches have a fuzzy feel to them.

Get Cooking! Nectarine and yoghurt dessert