What Are Kiwi Berries?

Meet the latest trend in pint-sized produce.

Have you heard of kiwi berries? These little fuzz-free fruits, about the size of a grape, are the United States' latest fruity trend (let's not forget the adorable cucamelon). We all know and love traditional kiwi, but arguably, the most annoying part of eating a kiwi is peeling it. And who hasn't just sliced a kiwi open and scooped out the fruit when they're feeling a little less than ambitious? Thankfully, it seems there's a relatively new solution, one that's actually been in the United States for over 150 years: the kiwi berry. Here's what you need to know.

What Do Kiwi Berries Taste Like?

Though kiwi berries are basically just mini kiwis, the flavor isn't the same — it's complex, sweet, and acidic. A little sweeter, easier to pop in your mouth, and naturally without that annoying fuzzy skin found on the grown-up version, kiwi berries are also packed with vitamin C (more than an orange!) plus vitamins A, E, B2, and fiber.

Where Do Kiwi Berries Grow?

Native to northern regions in Asia with cooler climates — like central China, Siberia, and Japan — the kiwi berry, or Actinidia Arguta, has actually been growing in the United States for more than 150 years. Kiwi berries have remained under the radar since the 1870s because no one has ever tried to commercialize them.

In recent years, the United States has become more interested in all things natural, and college research facilities around the country and private-label companies like Nergi are capitalizing on this by trying to integrate the kiwi berry into the everyday lives of Americans.

In the U.S., kiwi berries are now grown in areas with cooler climates like New England — they're the kind of fruit that can withstand very cold temperatures.

When and Where Can You Buy Kiwi Berries?

You may know that kiwis are in season during the winter and early spring — but kiwi berries reach their peak in fall, mostly September and part of October. At the grocery store or farmers' market, you can usually find kiwi berries in the same little plastic containers that blueberries and raspberries come in. But due to their short shelf life, some grocery stores might not carry them at all. They have been spotted at some popular chains, including Trader Joe's:

How Long Do Kiwi Berries Stay Fresh?

Treat kiwi berries like most other fruit in your fridge. Shelf life, once they reach your market, is 7 to 14 days. For the best flavor, they should be consumed within one week. Kiwi berries are ripe when the berry feels soft to the touch. And don't let them get wet or damp because moisture speeds up the rate of decay.

So where should you use your new favorite fruit? You could toss some kiwi berries in a fruit salad to surprise your friends, garnish a tropical cocktail with them, or just eat them with breakfast or for an afternoon snack — pretty much anything you'd do with a big kiwi, minus the hassle of peeling. Enjoy!