Are Nectarines Good For You?

What are nectarines?

Nectarines are stone fruits with smooth skin and sweet and slightly floral-tasting flesh. Nectarines are grown on trees and are native to Northwestern China and have since been cultivated in modern-day Iran and subsequently eaten globally. They are in season in the UK from May to around September. 

What’s the difference between nectarines and peaches?

Nectarines and peaches are actually the same species, both growing on the Prunus Persica tree. The difference is that nectarines are the result of a gene mutation which causes the skin of the fruit to be smooth and glossy, unlike peaches which have a fuzzy outside coating. 

Do nectarines have nutritional value?

Nectarines do indeed have a good nutritional profile, providing a range of nutrients:

• Great source of beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A, an essential vitamin that supports a healthy immune system
• Good source of vitamin K, essential for supporting healthy bone development
• Good source of fibre
• Good source of key minerals, including calcium and phosphorus

Are nectarines good for you?

Nectarines are a great fruit to incorporate into a balanced diet. They are full of antioxidants, especially gallic acid which is the subject of studies to determine its health benefits against common conditions including diabetes and cancer. 

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