$395 Pineapple Hits CA Produce Market

LOS ANGELES, CA—Forget the caviar. The latest culinary status symbol is the Rubyglow pineapple, which is now selling in California for $395.99 a pop.

Described by its sole Golden State distributor as a "rare gem"—and it might as well be a gem at that price—the Rubyglow is a delicacy previously only available in Asia.

"A rare gem, 15 years in the making, the Rubyglow boasts a unique lineage born from meticulous cultivation and traditional crossbreeding," Vernon-based produce distributor Melissa's announced in a written statement. "This meld of a classic pineapple and the rare Morada variety results in a striking jewel-toned exterior and rich, citrine-yellow flesh that delivers a luxurious, smooth flavor with minimal acidity."

The Rubyglow pineapple, sold for twenty-five times California's hourly minimum wage, is available for order, but it is limited in supply.

Grown in Costa Rica by Fresh Del Monte, only a few thousand are produced each year.

"With their striking red exterior and sweet yellow interior, they are truly one of a kind. Only a few thousand will be produced this year, furthering their resemblance to the scarce gem," Fresh Del Monte announced.

Still, the Rubyglow pineapple costs more than most Californians spend on groceries all week. Americans spend, on average, $270 per week on groceries, but in the Golden State they spend $298, according to a recent study by HelpAdvisor. That is the highest average grocery bill in the country.

For the pineapple gourmand budget shopper, Melissa's has more modest offerings such as the $29 Pinkglow or the South African Baby Pineapples for $56.79