Is a Strawberry a Vegetable?
Some people may be surprised to learn that a strawberry is actually not a true vegetable. In fact it is a member of the Rosaceae family and is related to other popular fruits, such as apples and apricots.
The Reasons Why Strawberries Are Not Vegetables
- Botanical – Botanically, strawberries are not considered a vegetable because they are a fruit. This is because they form from the ovaries of the flower and contain the seeds of the plant.
- Nutrients – Fruits contain higher amounts of nutrients than vegetables, specifically concentrated amounts of vitamins C and E, a few B vitamins, plus minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, and manganese. Vegetables are more likely to contain dietary fiber and other essential nutrients.
- Culinary – Culinary conventions also denote that strawberries are classified as fruit rather than being a vegetable. This is because they are usually served sweeter and desserts or accompanying other fruits in a variety of recipes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, strawberries are not vegetables because they are botanically classified as a fruit, contain higher amounts of nutrients than vegetables, and are generally treated as fruits in dining.
