The news broke this summer, just as the fruit harvest in France is set to begin in autumn. The green kiwi, originally from China, exported mainly by New Zealand and grown in Southwest France (Lot-et-Garonne and Landes), has obtained an EU-authorised health claim. A first that may well snowball…
It’s official! The Hayward green kiwi is now recognised for its positive impact on the microbiome and has received the first-ever health claim attributed to a fruit. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) based its decision on 18 scientific studies submitted by a New Zealand growers’ organisation (Zespri) to award this coveted label. A recognition notoriously difficult to obtain, many major food companies have failed to reach this level in this category of foods. The consumption of green kiwis is now officially acknowledged as contributing to normal intestinal function. Appreciated in China since Antiquity for its anti-inflammatory properties, the kiwi was already renowned for its high vitamin C content (much higher than citrus fruits).
A concentrate of fibre
But it is mainly thanks to its richness in fibre, essentially soluble one, that the fruit of the actinidia is officially recognised for having a positive impact on the microbiome and intestinal transit. In addition to fibre, it contains actinidin, a digestive enzyme also found in other tropical fruits such as banana, mango, pineapple... Supported by scientific evidence, consuming 200 g of green kiwi flesh that is, two fruits per day, acts as a natural laxative. The fibre content of two kiwis (5 g) is relatively high compared to others. But apple and pear are not far behind, with 2.4 g and 3.1 g respectively.
Combined with Rose of France® and grown in Lot-et-Garonne, apple and kiwi are the two star fruits of the *Thirst for calm* shot, designed to soothe inflammation of the skin microbiome and promote a calm, balanced complexion. A choice supported by clinical studies on their nutritional benefits and by the recommendations of a micronutritionist.
Photo credit : Alice Lévêque and Pexels-Badulescu