The loquat is a spring fruit with a sweet sour taste. The mature fruit have a soft texture and their skin is either golden yellow or orange. The variety Eriobotrya japonica is mainly cultivated in Messinia. Loquats are consumed raw or are used as an ingredient for marmalades, tarts and other desserts.
Loquats are low in calories (47 calories per 100 grams) and rich in fiber and pectin. For this reason they help reduce blood cholesterol levels and are a good choice for people suffering from constipation. Loquats are rich in vitamins A, B and C, which promote eye and teeth health and strengthen the immune system. Finally, they contain potassium, calcium, iron, copper, manganese, and other minerals, contributing to the production of red cells.