Some people may experience a slight burning sensation on their tongue while enjoying a piece of pineapple. Interestingly, this sensation is not due to the acidity of the fruit. The culprit behind the burning is an enzyme called bromelain, which is present in pineapple.
Bromelain has the ability to break down proteins and is commonly used as a meat tenderizer. When you consume pineapple, bromelain attempts to break down the proteins in your mouth, resulting in a tingling, burning, and possibly even bleeding sensation. In a sense, it feels like the pineapple is "eating you back."
Fortunately, there's no need to worry, as your mouth will heal quickly, and the acidic environment of your stomach provides protection. To reduce the burning sensation, you can try a couple of approaches.
Firstly, removing the stem of the pineapple before eating it may help, as bromelain is primarily concentrated in the stem. Another option is to cook the pineapple. The application of heat triggers a chemical reaction that neutralizes the bromelain, eliminating the risk of it causing a burning sensation.
It's important to note that consuming or coming into contact with excessive amounts of bromelain can lead to skin rashes, loss of fingerprints, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, bromelain also offers potential health benefits. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to reduce swelling.
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