Are Cactuses a Vegetable

Cactus is both a fruit and a vegetable. The edible, succulent pads (nopales) are considered vegetables, while the production of fruiting flower buds also makes it a fruit. The pads stay green all-year round and can be consumed at any time and that’s why cactus vegetables are always available.

What food group is cactus?

Cactus is also a vegetable because it is part of the plant that has grown from seed and sprouted. The fruit is one type of vegetable because it is a part of the plant that comes out of the ground. A vegetable is also defined as, “Any edible part of a plant or fungus that we consume other than fruits and seeds.”

Is eating cactus good for you?

A study found that eating cactus can reduce body fat, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Incorporating cactus fruits into your diet can help reduce the risk of diseases like stroke, coronary heart disease, and peripheral vascular diseases.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.

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