Unbelievably, pizza has been around for thousands of years. According to Streets of New York, its origins may be traced to the flatbreads with toppings that were common among the ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. However, the flatbreads with tomato sauce, cheese and toppings that are now known as pizza were created in Naples, Italy, on the country’s western coast.

Christopher Columbus brought the South American-native pineapple to Europe in the 16th century, where it became a representation of riches and exoticism. At first a luxury, it gradually evolved into a sign of hospitality and was grown in greenhouses before becoming widely available. Pizza is rich in nutrients, serves as a comforting and communal dish and offers a flexible meal choice. It can serve as a well-rounded meal, offering carbohydrates, fats and protein, particularly when adding vegetables and lean meats. Pizza can serve as a convenient and popular option for a fast and fulfilling meal.

Pineapple has many health benefits, such as improving the immune system, lowering inflammation, facilitating digestion, and perhaps preventing cancer. It contains high levels of vitamin C, manganese, and the anti-inflammatory enzyme bromelain. The high fiber content of pineapple can aid in digestion and support a healthy gut. Pineapple is rich in antioxidants that may aid in safeguarding cells from harm inflicted by free radicals. Pineapple contains few calories and is rich in fiber, which may help promote a sense of fullness and assist in managing weight. 

Pineapple on pizza, commonly known as “Hawaiian pizza,” was created in Canada in 1962 by Sam Panopoulos, an immigrant from Greece. He tried using canned pineapple on pizza to blend sweet and savory tastes, a notion influenced by the trend of merging various cuisines during that period. Even though it carries that name, it has no direct connection to Hawaii aside from the tropical fruit.

 Though traditionalists might reject it, pineapple on pizza illustrates the changing essence of international cuisine. Some appreciate the juicy sweetness it brings; others believe it conflicts with savory components. Still, this blend thrives, demonstrating that cuisine is both individual and societal.

 Ultimately, the discussion surrounding pineapple on pizza focuses more on personal preference and tradition than on what is right or wrong. Regardless of your fandom, it serves as a tasty reminder that creativity frequently begins with a sense of wonder and a can of pineapple

Maria Villegas, a senior sociology major, said she doesn’t like pineapple on pizza; instead, she prefers more traditional toppings like pepperoni and cheese. She doesn’t think that people who like pineapple are not good, but in her view, pizza is more delicious and affordable than pineapple. “I do not like pineapple on pizza. I like supreme, the one with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, some bell peppers, and olives,” Villegas said.

Rich in vitamins A, K, calcium, zinc, and phosphorus, fresh pineapple boasts high levels of vitamin C, all deemed crucial for the adult daily diet as per the USDA. Here are a few ways that pineapples go the extra mile to deliver essential nutrients while also pleasing our craving for sweetness.

Pineapple boasts a high water content and low calorie count, making it an excellent snack for staying hydrated and managing weight. Vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis, aiding in wound healing and supporting skin wellness.

Ntaka Nematandani, a sophomore majoring in family and human services major, on the other hand, does like pineapple on pizza, as she is health conscious. She is aware of the health benefits of pineapple, and its sweetness matters to her. 

Most people I interviewed liked pineapple on pizza. This may be due to the health benefits of pineapple, but this doesn’t mean that pizza is not good. This means people are more health-conscious, and still, they have pizza sometimes.

Jay Ram Mandal, junior nursing major, said he likes pineapple on pizza because “it’s a fruit and it has fiber,” and also praised it for its health benefits.

Pineapple on pizza continues to be a divisive food option, igniting discussions about the limits of classic flavor pairings. Some enjoy the contrast of sweetness and savoriness it provides, while others contend it undermines traditional pizza standards. In the end, the variety of personal flavors indicates that there is no absolute right or wrong—pizza, similar to all cuisine, is best savored based on personal choice.

Edited by Reid McEvoy and Morgan Albrecht.