Del Monte’s $50 Pinkglow GMO pineapple

I recall seeing the rumors about Del Monte’s BB #:111187 genetically engineered pink pineapple several years ago. I even wanted to get my hands on one for a magazine story about the pop culture popularity of pineapples.

Alas, no one could get me one.

But, for the bargain price of $49 (each) my wait is over.

Del Monte Fresh Produce has finally released the Pinkglow Pineapple.

So what, exactly, is a Pinkglow Pineapple, and what makes it worth $50? It’s bioengineered (also known as genetically modified), for one. They were developed with the addition of lycopene (the same thing that makes tomatoes red) to give it the rosy pink hue.

I also suspect quantities are extremely limited to warrant the price tag. Del Monte’s Pinkglow microsite also mentions it will arrive a little different than what consumers come to expect from a pineapple.

“Should you open your Pinkglow package only to wonder if your pineapple has lost its crown, fret not,” the site says. “We remove and replant each crown before shipping, sustainably cultivating the next crop for this magnificent rarity.”

As for flavor, Pinkglow Pineapples are supposed to be sweeter and less acidic with a “cotton candy” finish, “making them the perfect pairing that will elevate your next Insta-worthy culinary masterpiece.”

All of this tongue-in-cheek language might lead you to believe this might be a hoax. But this is no April Fool’s joke.

Pinkglow pineapples are available online through Melissa’s World Variety Produce on the West Coast and Tropical Fruit Box on the East Coast. Melissa’s includes contact information for chefs and produce managers to order wholesale here.

So, so tempting.

Image sources are either licensed or customer-provided.