What is the difference between a fruit and a vegetable?

The difference between a fruit and a vegetable is often a subject of confusion for many people. While fruits and vegetables are both plant-based foods, they are not the same thing. The main difference between a fruit and a vegetable lies in the part of the plant that they come from. Fruits come from the flower of the plant and contain seeds, while vegetables come from other parts of the plant like roots, stems, and leaves.

Another difference between fruits and vegetables is their nutritional content. Fruits are generally higher in natural sugars and vitamins, while vegetables are higher in fiber, minerals, and other nutrients. However, there are exceptions to this rule, such as avocados, which are a fruit but are high in healthy fats and fiber.

The distinction between fruits and vegetables is not just a matter of biology and nutrition, but also has legal implications. In the United States, for example, the Supreme Court has had to rule on whether certain foods like tomatoes should be classified as fruits or vegetables for the purposes of import taxes.