The English word "spinach" dates to the late 14th century, and is from espinache (Fr. épinard), of uncertain origin. source
The English word "spinach" dates to the late 14th century, and is from espinache (Fr. épinard), of uncertain origin.
Spinach is thought to have originated in ancient Persia (modern Iran and neighboring countries). source
Spinach is thought to have originated in ancient Persia (modern Iran and neighboring countries).
The earliest available record of the spinach plant was recorded in Chinese, stating it was introduced into China via Nepal (probably in 647 AD). source
The earliest available record of the spinach plant was recorded in Chinese, stating it was introduced into China via Nepal (probably in 647 AD).
In AD 827, the Saracens introduced spinach to Sicily. source
In AD 827, the Saracens introduced spinach to Sicily.
Spinach was also the subject of a special treatise in the 11th century by Ibn Ḥajjāj. source
Spinach was also the subject of a special treatise in the 11th century by Ibn Ḥajjāj.
The prickly-seeded form of spinach was known in Germany by no later than the 13th century. source
The prickly-seeded form of spinach was known in Germany by no later than the 13th century.
In a 100 g (3.5 oz) serving providing only 23 calories, spinach has a high nutritional value, especially when fresh, frozen, steamed, or quickly boiled. source
In a 100 g (3.5 oz) serving providing only 23 calories, spinach has a high nutritional value, especially when fresh, frozen, steamed, or quickly boiled.
Spinach also has a moderate calcium content which can be affected by oxalates, decreasing its absorption. source
Spinach also has a moderate calcium content which can be affected by oxalates, decreasing its absorption.
The calcium in spinach is among the least bioavailable of food calcium sources. source
The calcium in spinach is among the least bioavailable of food calcium sources.
the human body can absorb about half of the calcium present in broccoli, yet only around 5% of the calcium in spinach. source
the human body can absorb about half of the calcium present in broccoli, yet only around 5% of the calcium in spinach.
A distinction can be made between older varieties of spinach and more modern ones. source
A distinction can be made between older varieties of spinach and more modern ones.
In 2014, the world total production of spinach was 24.3 million tonnes, with China alone accounting for 91% of this quantity. source
In 2014, the world total production of spinach was 24.3 million tonnes, with China alone accounting for 91% of this quantity.
Spinach contains an appreciable amount of iron attaining 21% of the Daily Value in a 100 g (3.5 oz) amount of raw spinach (table). source
Spinach contains an appreciable amount of iron attaining 21% of the Daily Value in a 100 g (3.5 oz) amount of raw spinach (table).
Spinach is packaged in air, or in nitrogen gas to extend shelf life. source
Spinach is packaged in air, or in nitrogen gas to extend shelf life.
Some packaged spinach is exposed to radiation to kill any harmful bacteria that may be on the leaves. source
Some packaged spinach is exposed to radiation to kill any harmful bacteria that may be on the leaves.
