Getting children excited about fruit can be much easier when there is an element of discovery involved. Exotic fruits offer unusual colours, shapes, flavours and textures, making snack time feel a little more adventurous.
But which exotic fruits are best for children to try first?
Dragon fruit
Dragon fruit is an excellent introduction to exotic fruit. Its bright pink or yellow skin makes it instantly appealing, while the flesh is mild, juicy and delicately sweet. The tiny black seeds are edible, adding an interesting texture without an overpowering flavour.
For younger children, simply cut the fruit in half and scoop out the flesh, or slice it into manageable pieces.
Mango
Mango is a natural choice for children who enjoy sweet fruit. Its soft, juicy flesh has a familiar sweetness and can be served on its own, mixed into yoghurt or added to a breakfast bowl.
Different mango varieties can have subtly different flavours, so trying more than one can be a fun way to introduce children to the variety of fruit available around the world.
Rambutan
Rambutan looks rather unusual, with its colourful, hairy exterior, which can make it particularly exciting for curious children. Inside is juicy, translucent flesh with a mild sweetness.
Remove the skin and seed before giving rambutan to young children, and supervise them while eating.
Passion fruit
Passion fruit offers something different. Its wrinkled exterior hides aromatic pulp with a distinctive sweet-and-tangy flavour. Older children may enjoy scooping out the juicy flesh themselves and adding it to yoghurt, porridge or desserts.
Make it a tasting adventure
Unusual fruits can turn trying new foods into a family activity. Instead of presenting fruit as something children ought to eat instead of traditional sweet treats, let them explore the colours, smells, textures and flavours.
Exotic fruit can make healthy snacking feel like an adventure… and you may discover a new family favourite along the way such as our dragon fruit box.