Why pineapple stings your mouth and how to stop it

Pineapple is a tropical fruit that is sweet and juicy and makes a favourite ingredient in fruit salads or smoothies, and even on pizzas! But have you bitten into a fresh pineapple and experienced a tingling or burning sensation on your tongue or lips? Though it might actually feel painful, it’s actually a common reaction to the fresh pineapple and can even be prevented with ease, so you can enjoy eating it! By following simple tricks, you can enjoy the tropical sweetness of pineapple without discomfort. Let’s explore the reason behind this burning you may feel and walk you through tips on how to alleviate it and ensure you can enjoy eating it while retaining its tropical twist and sweet taste!Eating raw pineapple can sometimes cause a tingling or burning sensation on the tongue and inside the mouth. Due to the following reasons, you might feel a tingling sensation when eating a raw pineapple:Bromelain represents a combination of proteolytic enzymes, a natural component of pineapple, particularly in the core. The enzyme works on proteins, hence it's also the reason for meat tenderization. However, in your tongue, bromelain can irritate, making your tongue feel tingling or burning if you consume fresh pineapple.Pineapples contain bromelain and have a natural acidic value, which is mainly due to the presence of citric acid.The stinging sensation in the case of a pineapple is mainly due to the combination of bromelain and the natural acidic value of the fruit.Some individuals are more sensitive in the tongue area, which makes the burning sensation stronger.To prevent the burning sensation, try these tips:Cutting away the core, which contains the highest amount of bromelain, would be an effective means to reduce the stinging sensation when consuming the juice.Soaking slices of pineapple in chilled salted water for 10 to 15 minutes can reduce bromelain and acidity. After soaking, simply drain off excess salt.Consuming pineapple fruit with yoghurt, milk, or cream will definitely help to keep your tongue safe. Dairy products have proteins in them, which react with bromelain and reduce the impact of bromelain on your tongue and other parts of your mouth.Immature pineapples will be more acidic with a greater bromelain content, so the burning sensation will be exacerbated. Choose a pineapple with a golden colour and a slight give of ripeness if you want a gentler sensation.The bromelain can be neutralised through cooking, grilling, or baking the pineapple, and you can then consume it with no burn while retaining its juiciness and sweet taste.It is not necessary to give up the taste of pineapple simply because you experience tongue burn. In fact, you can now enjoy the taste of pineapple without any discomfort by considering some steps that would allow you to enjoy the pineapple taste without having to worry about the burn in your tongue.Cutting the pineapple into smaller pieces, rinsing your tongue with plenty of water or milk, and consuming pineapple along with other fruits would allow you to enjoy the taste without any trouble. Additionally, avoid eating it on an empty stomach if your mouth is sensitive.Pineapple's not just good on its own, but it’s highly versatile, making it possible for you to use it in different dishes. Here are some fun ways you can consider:Whatever way you decide to use it, the pineapple puts a sweet and tangy punch in both beverages and food, giving it one of the most versatile usages in your kitchen among all fruits.