If you're not a regular kiwifruit eater, then you might need a few tips on how to pick out the best ones at the store. First of all, be sure to look for the ZESPRI® Kiwifruit label, your assurance of consistent quality and flavor. Once you've located our display, then choose kiwis that are plump and smooth skinned with no wrinkles, bruises or punctures.

ZESPRI® GOLD Kiwifruit is usually ready to eat when you buy it. It should feel slightly soft to the touch, like a ripe peach or avocado. Ripe gold kiwifruit should be stored in the refrigerator. Many people say they like the flavor of gold kiwifruit best when chilled.

ZESPRI® GREEN Kiwifruit may be a bit too firm when you buy it. Green kiwifruit will usually ripen at home in three to five days when kept at room temperature. The firmer the fruit, the more tart it will taste.

To speed up the ripening process, place kiwis in a paper bag with an apple or banana, and keep that bag out on the counter. Fruits like apples and bananas produce natural ethylene gas, and ethylene accelerates fruit ripening. On the flip side, ripe kiwis should be stored away from these ethylene-producing fruits.

Ripe GREEN and GOLD Kiwifruit will keep in the family fruit bowl for a few days. But if you want to store the fruit longer, you should keep it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.