In addition to using it as food and beverage, the Caribs placed a pineapple on their doors as a sign of hospitality. It was so highly esteemed by the earliest settlers in the new world that the pineapple motif soon became a favorite European decoration. Commercially, in addition to the fruit and juice, the pineapple shells, ends, and trimmings are processed to make citrus acid used in making drugs, soft drinks and foods. Even the enzymes from the stumps of the mature plant are used in the brewing of beer and as a tenderizer. Many thousands of tons of pineapples from Hawaii are carried through the Canal each year en route to world markets.
Several varieties are available in Panama during dry season and the beginning of rainy season.
Panamanians will tell you that the world's best pineapples come from the Island of Taboga. One of the favorite beverages in Panama is made from the peel of the pineapple. Wash it thoroughly and peel it. Boil the peel with the rice in water to cover. When the rice is tender, discard the peel and strain.