Pomegranate seeds are hard and fibrous. While they are surrounded by a sweet, juicy covering known as the aril, the inner seed itself has a firm texture.
Understanding the pomegranate's structure helps clarify this common question. A pomegranate is filled with hundreds of small segments, each containing a seed encased in a vibrant, pulpy aril. People often think of the soft, bursting aril when they think of eating a pomegranate, but the true seed lies within this juicy coating.
Based on the provided reference, "the seeds themselves are hard and fibrous" (1). This fibrous nature contributes to their firm texture, making them different from the soft aril.
| Component | Texture | Primary Sensation |
|---|---|---|
| Aril (Flesh) | Soft, Pulpy | Sweet, Juicy |
| Seed (Inner Core) | Hard, Fibrous | Firm, Slightly Nutty |
The seeds comprise about half of the weight of a pomegranate (1). Although many people chew and swallow the seeds along with the arils, or even spit them out due to their hardness, the reference suggests you might be missing out on some health benefits if you discard them.
Why Are Pomegranate Seeds Hard?
The hardness comes from their composition, primarily fiber. This fibrous structure protects the inner embryo of the seed and provides the rigidity you feel when you bite down on one.
Eating Pomegranate Seeds
While the aril is soft and easy to crush with your tongue, the seeds require chewing.
Here are a few ways people consume pomegranate seeds:
- Chewing: Many chew the seeds along with the aril, appreciating the textural contrast.
- Swallowing Whole: Some people swallow the seeds whole after separating them from the aril, similar to swallowing small seeds from berries.
- Processing: In some preparations, the seeds (arils and all) might be blended into juices or smoothies, where their hardness is broken down.
Ultimately, whether you find the hardness pleasant or prefer to avoid it is a matter of personal preference. However, based on their physical composition, pomegranate seeds are definitively on the hard side.
