Eggplants come in different shapes, colors and sizes.

Regular/Classic Eggplant

White Eggplant

Eggplants (Solanum melongena) are said to have originated in India about 2000 years ago.  They belong to the Solanaceae group, otherwise known as the nightshade family, which include items such as potatoes, tomatoes and bell peppers.   Eggplants come in  different sizes, shapes and colors.

Known as aubergines in France, eggplants have been a dietary staple in many cultures world-wide for hundreds of years.   They probably received their name, eggplant, when the smaller, white varieties were more prevalent.

Known for their smooth, glossy skin and vivid colors, eggplants are excellent source of potassium and fiber.  They posses many nutritional benefits and are becoming increasingly popular amongst U.S. consumers.

 

Intersting Facts About Eggplant
Source: The Packer Fresh Trends 2009 - Annual Consumer Survey

  • The Northeastern population of the United States is more likely to purchase eggplant (28%) than other regions (Western United States 23%, South 19% and Midwest 17%).
  • There is a strong correlation between eggplant purchases and household income.  The higher the income, the likelier the eggplant purchases.  Households with an annual income of $100,000 or more are most likely to purchase eggplant (31%), whereas households earning less than $25,000 are the least likely (12%).
  • 69% of the people who purchased eggplant in 2008 said they purchased conventionally-grown eggplant and 8% said they purchased organic. 18% bought conventional and organic product.
  • Organic product sales are increasing.  26% of consumers who purchased eggplant last year confirmed having bought organic eggplant at some point. According to The Packer, the likelihood of people buying organic eggplant has doubled over the last three years.