I never realized that something as sweet and refreshing as pineapple could cause a strange reaction until I saw how it affected some people, especially kids. Pineapple is a tropical fruit adored for its juicy, tangy-sweet taste and is commonly eaten fresh, blended into juices, or added to recipes both savory and sweet.

But for some individuals, particularly children, eating pineapple can cause an odd tingling or even burning feeling on the tongue or inside the mouth. For anyone who hasn’t experienced it before, this sensation can come as a surprise and raise concerns about what’s actually causing it and whether it’s something to worry about. To get to the bottom of this, it’s important to understand the natural makeup of the fruit. Pineapples are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, which are responsible not only for the fruit’s health benefits but also for some of its unexpected effects.

One specific enzyme found in pineapple plays a big role in this tingling phenomenon—bromelain. Bromelain is actually a group of enzymes naturally present in pineapples, especially concentrated in the stem and the juicy flesh. These enzymes are well known for their ability to break down proteins, which is why pineapple juice is sometimes used to tenderize meat. But when we eat fresh pineapple, the bromelain doesn’t discriminate; it starts working on the proteins in our mouth too, including those on our tongue and the lining of our cheeks. This can result in a temporary tingling or slightly burning feeling because the enzyme is actively affecting the proteins in those soft tissues. The intensity of this reaction can vary widely from person to person. Some people don’t notice anything at all, while others find the sensation quite noticeable. Several factors can influence this experience, such as how ripe the pineapple is, how much bromelain it contains, and how sensitive someone’s mouth is.

Children often have more delicate oral tissues, so they may be more likely to notice a strong reaction. It’s also possible that people who eat pineapple frequently may build a bit of a tolerance, while others who consume it only occasionally might react more strongly. Genetic differences, enzyme sensitivity, and how often someone eats foods like pineapple all play a part in how the body responds. Although pineapple is best known for bromelain, it’s not the only fruit that can trigger such a reaction. Kiwi and papaya also contain protein-dissolving enzymes, which can cause similar sensations, though usually less intense than pineapple due to the lower concentration of enzymes. If the tingling is bothersome, there are a few easy ways to reduce or even prevent it. Eating ripe pineapple can help, as the levels of bromelain decrease as the fruit matures.

Another trick is to pair pineapple with dairy products like yogurt, cream, or ice cream—the proteins in these foods can bind to bromelain and neutralize its effects. Cooking pineapple also works well, since heat deactivates the enzyme, which is why canned pineapple, which has been heat-treated during processing, usually doesn’t cause any tingling at all. While the sensation is usually harmless and temporary, there are situations where it could indicate a more serious issue. If tingling is accompanied by symptoms like swelling of the lips or face, hives, or difficulty breathing, it might signal an allergic reaction that requires medical attention. If someone finds the reaction very uncomfortable or if it persists longer than expected, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues. In general, pineapple remains a safe, delicious, and healthy addition to most people’s diets. By simply understanding what causes the tingling sensation and taking small steps to minimize it—like letting the fruit ripen fully or pairing it with other foods—you can continue to enjoy everything this vibrant tropical fruit has to offer without discomfort. So next time your child says their tongue feels weird after eating pineapple, you’ll know it’s likely the bromelain doing its job, and there are simple ways to keep enjoying pineapple worry-free.