The Kiwi Fruit: An Unlikely Delight or a Prison Sentence

Have you ever given the kiwi fruit a second glance? This peculiar fruit is often seen as an oddity, with a taste that many describe as sweet and enjoyable. However, the experience of eating a kiwi is more than just taste—it's a sensory adventure that can either bring a smile to your face or, in certain circumstances, land you in a significant amount of trouble. Let's delve into the intricacies of enjoying (or not) the kiwi fruit.

The Enigma of the Kiwi

“You get a mouth full of feathers with small bones and little meat. Next you get a tap on the shoulder and are locked up for eating a protected native bird.” While this statement might be humorous, it captures the unique experience of eating a kiwi fruit. Its texture is compared to that of a bird, which, in New Zealand, can lead to serious legal consequences.

Crave a kiwi? Let us explore why you might want to and perhaps why you shouldn't. Here’s what happens when you eat a kiwi fruit:

Why You Should Draw the Line at Eating a Kiwi (for Real)

First of all, why would you even consider eating a kiwi? Despite its gritty exterior and lack of meat, kiwi fruits are surprisingly soft and easy to swallow when they are at their ripest. To enjoy them fully, you need to chew through the slightly gristly texture to reach the sweet, delicious center. This process is both unique and somewhat challenging, but it’s doable.

Secondly, if you were in New Zealand, eating a kiwi fruit might be more of a culinary act than a mere snack. In New Zealand, the kiwi bird is a protected native species and consuming it is a serious violation of conservation laws. The punishment for this can range from a hefty fine to a prison sentence—a legal impediment that doesn’t exist in many parts of the world.

The Sweet Taste and Inconvenience

Once you've tamed the gristle and bones, you are rewarded with the sweet, tangy, and juicy flesh of the kiwi. But be prepared to spend some time picking out the tiny black seeds that can get stuck in your teeth. The process is not over when you’ve finished eating; your digestive system will thank you later when the seeds start passing through your system.

When you eat a kiwi, you might also experience a boost in potassium, which can contribute to better sleep. However, the real challenge lies in the aftermath. The seeds of the kiwi are notoriously difficult to remove from your teeth, ensuring a thorough cleaning afterward.

Why I Love Eating Kiwi

Despite the challenges, I still enjoy eating kiwi fruits. It’s a delightful sensory experience that requires a bit of patience and effort, but the reward is well worth it.

The Verdict

While the kiwi fruit offers a unique and enjoyable experience, it’s important to consider the legal and ethical implications of consuming kiwi birds in New Zealand. If it’s the fruit you’re after, it’s a great way to get a protein boost and perhaps even a better night’s sleep. Just be cautious about the legal ramifications and the potential dental work that might follow.

Enjoy your kiwi fruit, but always remember the importance of respecting wildlife and the laws that protect it.