Guava seeds are small, oval-shaped seeds found inside the fruit of the guava plant (Psidium guajava). Here are some key characteristics and descriptions of guava seeds:
Appearance: Guava seeds are typically small, round to oval in shape, and have a hard outer coat. They are usually pale yellow to light brown in color.
Texture: The seeds have a smooth, glossy surface when fresh. The outer coat is hard and slightly slippery.
Size: On average, guava seeds are about 2-4 mm in length and 1-2 mm in width, although sizes can vary depending on the guava variety.
Edibility: While the seeds are edible, they are generally not consumed due to their hard texture and bitter taste. However, they are not harmful if accidentally ingested.
Seed Distribution: Guava seeds are distributed throughout the flesh of the fruit, embedded in the soft, juicy pulp.
Germination: Guava seeds are viable and can be used for propagation. They germinate easily under suitable conditions, making guava a relatively easy fruit to grow from seed.
Nutritional Content: Like most seeds, guava seeds contain some amount of nutrients, including healthy fats and protein, though in small quantities compared to the flesh of the fruit.
Culinary Uses: In some cuisines, especially in parts of Asia and Latin America, guava seeds are sometimes included in jams and jellies, providing added texture and a slight crunch.
Overall, while guava seeds are not typically consumed directly due to their hard texture and bitter taste, they play a role in the propagation of the guava plant and occasionally in culinary applications for their texture.