The pineapple is native to Central and South America. The varieties of pineapple are Cayenne pineapple, Red Spanish pineapple, Sugar Loaf. Pineapples can weigh up to 20 pounds, though the average size marketed ranges between 2 and 5 pounds. Fresh pineapple is available year-round. This is one fruit that must be picked ripe because the starch will not convert to sugar once it’s off the plant. Pineapple is available canned (in its own juice or in sugar syrup), crushed or in chunks, slices or tidbits. It can also be found frozen and candied. Fresh and frozen pineapple cannot be used in gelatin mixtures because of a natural enzyme that prevents them from setting (canned pineapple doesn’t cause a problem). Pineapples are a fair source of vitamins A and C.