What is a Pluot? The Pluot is a hybrid fruit combining parts of both the plum and the apricot. This new fruit is the product of Zaiger’s Genetics a family owned company based in Modesto, California. According to Wikipedia their motto is, “a family organized to improve fruit worldwide”. It is the fruit of the month (along with the Aprium) on the government’s CDC website (http://www.fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov).

Image by wildxplorer via Flickr

This new fruit comes in almost 20 different varieties. They are called by deliciously futuristic sounding names such as the “Flavorosa” and the “Flavorella”. Some are named after their appearance like the Dapple Dandy (which resembles a dinosaur egg because of it’s dappled exterior color and is, in fact, also nicknamed the “Dinosaur Egg”).

Image via Wikipedia

An interesting thing about the new varieties of is that depending on the ratio of plum-to-apricot the fruit will taste sweeter, more plum-like or have a different texture. The Pluots all have at least a majority of plum in them and this is what differentiates them from the Apriums (the hybrid with at least 51% Apricot). Also, these new fruits are cross-bred (i.e.-tangelos), not genetically engineered, so people who are nervous about eating foods that are strictly the product of science need not worry.

Image via Wikipedia

It seems as though new fruit flavors, interesting textures, and funky new names aren’t the only advantages of these new hybrid fruits. They also provide growers with varying ripening seasons, as well as added resistance to pests and plant diseases. These may be some of the reasons Zaiger’s varieties of fruit are rapidly growing in the worldwide fruit produce segment.

Although you won’t find it listed in the Encarta dictionary yet, the Oxford English Dictionary does recognize this new type of fruit. So, rest assured, the Pluot is here to stay. I guess the next step is searching your local supermarket so you can try one of the these sweet, tasty newbies.