Olives – Fruit or Vegetable?
It is a common debate – are olives a fruit or a vegetable? It turns out, it is not as black and white as it might seem.
Is an Olive a Vegetable?
Strictly speaking, an olive is a fruit. Olives grow from a plant and the edible part is formed from the ovary of the olive blossom. According to botany, a fruit is the part of the plant that matures from the ovary after fertilization, and two different types of olive fruit are generally recognised.
Are Olives Classified as a Vegetable?
However, for culinary purposes, olives are classified as vegetables. This is because they are not sweet in taste and because they are generally eaten alongside salads and savoury dishes.
Are Olives a Fruit or a Vegetable?
So, to summarise, are olives a fruit or vegetable? From a botanical perspective an olive is a fruit, but from a culinary perspective it is viewed and classified as a vegetable.
Nutritional Benefits of Olives
Whether you view olives as a fruit or a vegetable, one thing is for sure – they are extremely nutritious.
Here is an overview of the potential health benefits of including olives in your diet
- High in Healthy Fats – Olives are a great source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of stroke.
- Loaded with Antioxidants – Olives are a good source of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals in the body.
- Contains Important Nutrients – Olives are an excellent source of copper and iron, two nutrients which play a vital part in the health of your blood and cells.
Conclusion
In conclusion, olives are technically a fruit, but are usually classified as a vegetable due to their savoury taste and culinary usage. However you view this delicious snack, one thing is for sure – they are highly nutritious!
