Whether or not pineapple should be considered a pizza topping has been a discussion for years. While we cannot provide you with the definitive answer, as your local Lowell pizza shop, our team at Primo Pizza is providing insight to both sides. And, because we love pizza so much, we will also delve a bit into the history behind pineapple as a pizza topping!
Who decided to put pineapple on pizza?
Believe it or not, pineapple as a pizza topping has been around for quite some time. In 1962, a man named Sam Panopoulos earned credit for the first pineapple pizza. Crafted at the Satellite Restaurant in Chatham, Ontario, Mr. Panopoulos believed that the pineapple juice mixed well with the salty, crisp flavors of ham. So, he decided to combine the two. The rest is history.
The science on why the combination works.
Along with the hundreds of thousands of people who support pineapple as a pizza topping, we also have science to back up the claim. Taste is broken down into five factors: sweet, savory, bitter, sour, and salty. Our bodies naturally crave sugar which can be found in various fruits such as pineapple. When you combine flavors, like sweet pineapple with salty ham, it turns into another classic combo no different from peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
The criticism of the claim.
While many love pineapple on their pizza, there are just as many who prefer to leave it aside. One of the most common reasons behind people not liking pineapple on pizza is as simple as the “texture not matching up” or “the pizza is too juicy.” World-renowned chef Gordon Ramsey is one of these people agreeing that pineapple on pizza is unacceptable. Even the country of Italy, where the world’s first pizza was invented, snubs their nose at the thought of incorporating pineapple.
The verdict.
When it comes down to the answer, the truth lies solely in the opinion of the consumer. And, who are we to say which side is the right side? Whether you enjoy pineapple as a topping or not, our family at Primo Pizza invites you to come down to your local Lowell pizza shop for the best pizza in the area – served up just the way you like it!