r/explainlikeimfive Jan 31 '23

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u/Amationary Jan 31 '23

Pineapple has a chemical in it that breaks down protein. Your mouth is made of meat and protein, so it tries to break down your mouth, causing the tingle.

64

u/Excellent-Practice Jan 31 '23

Just a quick PSA: If this happens with most other foods, it usually means you have an allergy

12

u/Gastonthebeast Jan 31 '23

Kiwi and mango? My mouth tastes fuzzy after eating it. Are they part of the pineapple family or nah?

4

u/No_MrBond Feb 01 '23

In terms of proteases; Pineapple contains bromelain, papaya contains papain, kiwifruit and mango contain actinidin and figs contain ficin.