Do you ever feel like food talk is always too serious—calories, nutrients, and diets? Let’s take a break from that. Today, we’ll share fun and surprising food facts that will bring a smile to your face. At Rooted Table Café in Omaha, we love learning little bites of history and quirky stories that make meals even more enjoyable. This is part of our journey in Unique Food Facts & History.
Why do bananas curve?
Bananas aren’t straight because they grow toward the sun. Farmers call this process negative geotropism. Instead of hanging down, the fruit bends upward as it ripens.
Fun twist
- Bananas are actually berries.
- Their plants are not trees but giant herbs.
Did you know carrots used to be purple?
The carrots we know today—orange and crunchy—were not always this way. Hundreds of years ago, most carrots were purple, yellow, or even white.
Why the change?
- In the 17th century, Dutch farmers bred orange carrots as a tribute to their royal family, the House of Orange.
- The orange carrot became popular and spread around the world.
Can honey really last forever?
Yes! Archaeologists have found pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old—and still safe to eat.
What makes honey special?
- Low moisture keeps bacteria away.
- Natural acidity acts like a preservative.
Why do onions make us cry?
It’s not your cooking skills—it’s chemistry. When you cut an onion, it releases sulfur compounds that mix with the air. These create a mild acid that irritates your eyes.
Quick tip
Chill onions in the fridge before chopping. This slows down the chemical reaction and reduces tears.
What’s so funny about peanuts?
Despite the name, peanuts aren’t nuts at all. They belong to the legume family, just like beans and lentils.
Bonus fact
In the U.S., peanut butter must be at least 90% peanuts to be legally called peanut butter.
How do pineapples grow?
Many people think pineapples grow on trees—but they don’t. They grow from the ground on a short, spiky plant.
Sweet surprise
- Each pineapple takes about 18–24 months to grow.
- The plant only produces one pineapple at a time.
FAQs
A: Most are, but some wild varieties grow straighter depending on their environment.
A: Yes! In the 1830s, ketchup made from tomatoes was sold as a cure for indigestion.
A: Pineapples need time to develop their thick skin and sweet flavor, which is why they take up to two years.
A: Yes, specialty markets and some farmers in Omaha offer heirloom carrots in purple, yellow, and white.
