While many people associate the pineapple with Hawaii, the fruit is actually native to southern Brazil and Paraguay. Native Americans spread the fruit northward in South America, as well as to Central America and the West Indies. Columbus discovered the pineapple on the island of Guadeloupe and named it “The Pine of the Indies” because of its outer resemblance to a pinecone. He introduced it to Spain and Europe, where it was spread around the world by
merchant sailors. The English added the word “apple” to associate it with the commonly-enjoyed apple.
Because of its scarcity and desirability in Europe, pineapple was a principal offering to house guests by hosts who could obtain the fruit, which is how the pineapple became a symbol of hospitality.
Red River’s dried pineapple is used in trail mixes as well as a sweet and tangy stand-alone snack.