Fascinating Facts - Figs
- They may not look like it, but figs are a member of the mulberry family.
- The fig tree is a symbol of abundance, fertility and sweetness.
- Fig trees do not flower, the 'fruit' that we eat is the blossom and is pollinated by a special type of wasp.
- Figs contain more dietary fiber than any other fruit.
- They’re a great source of potassium and iron as well as an impressive source of calcium.
- Eating one half cup of figs has as much calcium as drinking one-half cup of milk.
- Figs naturally help hold in moisture in baked goods, keeping them fresher.
- Fig puree can be used to replace fat in baked goods.
- Figs made their first commercial product appearance with the 1892 introduction of Fig Newtons® cookies.
- Long used as a laxative, figs rely on an enzyme that reacts in the bowel, rather than fibre to achieve the desired effect.
- Use figs as soon as possible; they can be stored in the refrigerator for five to seven days or frozen in a sealed bag or container for up to six months.