Dragon fruit (pitaya) is the fruit of a climbing cactus, providing about 60 kcal and 3 g of fibre per 100 g, with mild sweetness and edible black seeds. Vietnam is one of the world’s largest producers and exporters, growing it mainly in Binh Thuan, Long An and Tien Giang provinces. Red-fleshed varieties contain betalain pigments that give juice a vivid magenta colour.
Key facts at a glance
- Varieties: white flesh with pink skin, red flesh with pink skin, and yellow skin with white flesh.
- Taste: mild, lightly sweet; red and yellow types are sweeter.
- Nutrition: low calorie, some fibre and magnesium; vitamin C is modest and varies.
- Pink urine after eating red dragon fruit is harmless.
- In juice, red dragon fruit is valued mainly for natural colour.
Dragon fruit varieties
| Type | Skin / flesh | Taste | Main use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hylocereus undatus | Pink / white | Mild | Fresh export |
| Hylocereus red-flesh types | Pink / red | Sweeter | Fresh, juice, colour |
| Selenicereus megalanthus | Yellow / white | Sweetest | Premium fresh |
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Per 100 g (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Energy | 60 kcal |
| Carbohydrate | 13 g |
| Fibre | 3 g |
| Magnesium | about 40 mg |
| Vitamin C | Low to moderate, varies by variety |
From farm to juice
- Harvest runs through much of the year, helped by night lighting that induces off-season flowering.
- Juice is mild, so dragon fruit is often blended with lime, passion fruit or pineapple.
- Red-flesh purée gives natural pink colour, reducing the need for added colours.
- Colour stability — betalains fade with heat and light; careful processing helps.
Frequently asked questions
Is dragon fruit healthy?
Yes. It is low in calories and provides fibre and magnesium. It is not especially high in vitamin C.
Why is my urine pink after eating dragon fruit?
Red dragon fruit pigments (betalains) can pass into urine. It is harmless and temporary.
What does dragon fruit juice taste like?
Mild and lightly sweet, somewhere between kiwi and pear. It is usually blended with more acidic fruits.
Where is dragon fruit grown in Vietnam?
Mainly in Binh Thuan, Long An and Tien Giang provinces.
Tropical fruit juices from ACM Beverage
ACM Beverage produces tropical fruit juices in Vietnam for OEM and private label customers. See the fruit juice range. Related reading: fruit juice flavour combinations.
