If you’ve ever tried to cost a menu item or stock a produce department without knowing the real weight of a pineapple case, you know how quickly guesswork turns into waste. Some sellers speak in counts (5s, 6s, 7s), others in net kilograms, still others in shipping pounds. Then there’s the follow-on math: how big is the carton, how many servings can it deliver, what happens to weight after trimming, and how much juice you can actually bottle from one case.
This guide brings the practical details together in one place. You’ll get a plain-language definition of a pineapple case, the weights stated in both pounds and kilograms, a comparison table that breaks down common pack styles by origin and use, the factors that nudge weight up or down, an easy way to present price snapshots, typical outer dimensions, smart use cases, a quick calorie chart, realistic juicing losses, and grounded expectations for servings per case. By the end, you’ll be able to order the right pack for your operation and estimate yield without surprises.
One-liner to orient you: A “case” is a standardized pack unit sold by count; the most common export spec is around 12 kilograms (about 26–27 pounds), while many US one-layer cartons land in the mid-20s pounds per case.
Discuss: Set Reader Expectations
Who buys cases
Cases serve different worlds. Restaurants and hotels need predictable prep yields; juice bars need reliable juice output; retailers and co-ops want consistent display size; caterers want easy portioning for events. Each group asks the same questions in different ways: “How heavy is the case?” “How many pieces are inside?” “What does that mean for labor, storage, and cost?”
How cases are labeled
Fresh pineapple moves through trade in count-based packs. The carton is marked 5s, 6s, 7s, 8s—meaning the number of fruit inside. Variety (often MD2/‘Gold’) and crown status (crowned or crownless) also appear. These small details predict how the net weight will feel in the hand and how the fruit will behave on the cutting board.
Why weights vary
Even when two cartons share a count, their nets can differ. The difference comes from fruit size grade, net vs gross spec, crown status, moisture and maturity, origin and season, packer tolerances, and handling shrink. Understanding these levers lets you plan with confidence and cushion your forecasts where it matters.
What Is a Case of Pineapple?
A case of pineapple is a carton of whole pineapples packed by count—commonly 5–10 fruit per case—to reach a target net weight that buyers can plan around.
- Net vs gross
Net weight is the fruit itself. Gross weight is fruit plus packaging. Use net for costing and yield, because that’s the edible mass you transform into rings, spears, dice, or juice. - Crowned vs crownless
Crowned fruit keep their leafy tops; crownless fruit are trimmed for density and processing speed. Crownless programs typically publish a slightly lower net for similar counts because leaf mass isn’t riding along. - Typical dimensions
Fresh export cartons generally run ~600 × 400 × 140–160 mm on the outside. The footprint is deliberate: stable stacking on common pallets, good airflow, and easy handling in back rooms. - Program differences
Export programs focus on presentation and steady nets. US foodservice leans on one-layer cartons—open, count-visible, fast to pick and prep. Farm-direct shipments vary more in presentation but offer freshness and a direct-from-grower story.
How Much Does a Case of Pineapple Weigh?
The weight of a case of pineapples depends on whether the fruit is packed with its crown, crownless, or tailored for a specific market like foodservice or direct-to-retail. For export-grade pineapples, such as the popular MD2/Gold variety, a crowned case typically nets around 12 kilograms, or about 26–27 pounds. Crownless export packs come in slightly lighter, averaging 10.5 kilograms, or about 23 pounds, since the leafy tops are removed to save weight and optimize space.
In the U.S. foodservice sector, cases are often packed in one-layer cartons, usually holding six to eight pineapples. These cases fall in the range of 11.5 to 13.2 kilograms, or about 25–29 pounds, depending on the exact fruit size and supplier standards. Farm-direct packs, which might contain around eight pineapples per case, are lighter, averaging 8.2 kilograms, or about 18 pounds net.
It’s important to keep in mind that these weights serve as general benchmarks. Different shippers or growers may publish slightly adjusted figures, often providing a minimum net guarantee to ensure consistency across shipments. These standards help buyers, distributors, and retailers plan logistics, pricing, and storage more accurately.
Detailed Comparison Table
Use this table to compare by type, origin, count, weight in kg & pounds, price, dimensions, crown status, typical fruit weight each, and intended buyer/use. Replace the bracketed price/date notes with your local snapshot before publishing.
| Pack type / Variety | Origin (Country/Region) | Count per case | Net weight (kilograms) | Net weight (pounds) | Typical price per case | Case dimensions (L×W×H) | Crown status | Typical fruit weight each (g / pounds) | Intended buyer / use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Export MD2 (crowned) | Costa Rica / Latin America | 5–10 | 12 kg | 26–27 lb | 24–32 USD | ~600×400×150 mm | Crowned | Size 5: ~2100–2500 g / ~4.6–5.5 lb | Retail & foodservice |
| Export MD2 (crownless) | Peru / Costa Rica | 5–9 | 10.5 kg | ~23 lb | 22–30 USD | ~600×400×140 mm | Crownless | Size 6–8: ~1500–2000 g / ~3.3–4.4 lb | Retail, process/juice |
| US 1-layer carton | USA terminal markets | 6–8 | ~11.5–13.2 kg | ~25–29 lb | 17–32 USD | One-layer footprint | Crowned | ~1.8–2.3 kg / ~4.0–5.0 lb | Foodservice |
| Farm-direct case | Hawaii / Local farm | ~8 | ~8.2 kg | ~18 lb | 70–90 USD | Varies by shipper | Crowned | ~1.0–1.3 kg / ~2.2–2.9 lb | DTC / gifting |
| Retail export carton | Philippines → Asia retail | ~7 | 12 kg (gross typical) | ~26–27 lb (gross) | HK$ range on | Retail display carton | Crowned | ~1.6–1.9 kg / ~3.5–4.2 lb | Retail displays |
Basics of a Case’s Weight
When looking at pineapple cases, it’s important to understand that the numbers you see on shipping labels or invoices don’t always tell the whole story. The net weight—what you actually get in usable fruit—is the key figure to focus on. Export-grade crowned pineapples, such as MD2 or Gold varieties, typically target around 12 kilograms net, while crownless packs are slightly lighter at about 10.5 kilograms net. In the U.S. foodservice market, standard one-layer cartons usually fall in the 25–29 pound net range, depending on the supplier and how many pineapples are packed.
Case weight is also tied to count codes, which indicate how many pineapples fit inside. For example, a case coded “5s” means it holds fewer but larger pineapples, while codes like “8s” or “10s” point to smaller fruit packed in greater numbers. The net case weight doesn’t change much between these codes; what shifts is the size of each pineapple, the yield per fruit, and the prep time required.
Another key distinction is gross versus net weight. Gross weight includes the cardboard carton, liners, and other packaging, but when calculating cost per pound, freight, or portion sizes, it’s the net fruit weight that truly matters.
Factors Influencing a Case of Pineapple Weight
The weight of a pineapple case is not a fixed figure—it’s the result of multiple variables that interact from field to carton. Buyers, distributors, and even chefs should understand these influences because they affect not only transport costs but also yield, prep efficiency, and the ultimate dining experience.
1) Fruit Size Grade (Count Codes)
Case weights are closely tied to fruit size grades, known as count codes. A “size 5” pineapple is a heavyweight, often tipping the scale at over two kilograms per fruit, which means only a handful of pineapples fit into a case. On the other hand, size 8s average closer to a kilogram and a half each, allowing more fruit per case. While the net case weight remains similar, the difference lies in yield per fruit: larger pineapples deliver fewer, bigger rings or spears, while smaller fruit require more cuts but are quicker to dice for salads or bowls.
2) Crown Status
Another factor is whether the pineapple ships crowned or crownless. Crowned fruit include the leafy tops, which add visual appeal but don’t contribute to edible yield. Crownless programs are more compact, efficient for transport, and friendlier to processing lines. Because the non-edible crown mass is trimmed away before packing, crownless export specs show slightly lower nets for the same fruit count.
3) Maturity and Moisture Content
Pineapples are water-rich, and their stage of ripeness directly affects case weight. Firm-ripe pineapples distribute moisture evenly, giving a consistent texture and clean cuts. Overripe fruit may feel heavier initially but often lose water quickly and yield more ragged trims. This subtle shift in moisture content can nudge measured net weight and change trim efficiency—important for operators who need predictable yields.
4) Packer Tolerances: Target vs. Minimum Net
Every packer defines target nets (ideal weights) and minimum nets (guaranteed weights). For example, a case might aim for 12 kilograms but guarantee no less than 11.8 kilograms. For buyers managing cost per portion, the minimum net provides a reliable benchmark and helps prevent shortfalls when forecasting juice volume or salad servings.
5) Handling Shrink
From harvest to cold storage and shipping, pineapples naturally lose a small amount of water. At the single-case level, this loss is minor, but across a full pallet and a busy service week, it accumulates. Smart buyers factor in a margin of shrink when calculating menu yields.
6) Origin and Seasonality
Finally, where and when the fruit is grown matters. Peak harvest seasons often produce larger, denser fruit, while shoulder seasons bring smaller pineapples that still meet case nets but may require more pieces per carton. Growers in different regions also deliver slightly different shell firmness, affecting both case weight and ease of prep. For operations needing uniform ring diameters or long spears, aligning order timing with seasonal peaks is essential.
Why Case Weight Matters
When it comes to pineapples, case weight is more than a number on a shipping label—it directly influences logistics, costs, labor, and daily operations. Understanding net case weight helps both distributors and foodservice operators plan smarter, reduce waste, and maximize profitability.
Freight and Pallet Math
Carriers charge by mass and volume, so knowing your case nets is crucial when calculating shipping rates and pallet loads. A case that averages 12 kilograms or 25–29 pounds must be factored into stacking patterns to avoid exceeding lift thresholds or overloading equipment. Heavier cases may concentrate value into fewer units, which can save on freight space, but lighter cases are sometimes easier to handle and spread out weight more evenly across pallets. Planning with accurate nets keeps inbound costs predictable and prevents unexpected surcharges.
Menu Costing and Portioning
Every gram of pineapple translates into servings, and accurate case weights ensure reliable costing. If a parfait requires 80 grams per cup or a smoothie bowl uses 200 grams, the net case weight combined with trim yield dictates how many portions you can deliver. Even small miscalculations can leave a kitchen short of fruit, upsetting service schedules and inflating costs.
Labor and Safety
Case weight also impacts how teams handle inventory. One-layer cartons in the mid-20s pound range are manageable with basic equipment such as dollies, carts, and waist-high shelving. Still, proper ergonomics matter: lifting from the floor, twisting, or repetitive strain can create injuries over time. By standardizing handling practices and understanding case weights, operators safeguard employees while maintaining workflow efficiency.
Inventory Planning
Finally, case weight ties directly into production planning. A reliable net tells you how many cups, spears, or bottles of juice a single case supports. This precision reduces the risk of over-ordering, prevents spoilage, and minimizes emergency distributor runs. In short, knowing your case weight keeps prep schedules consistent and waste under control.
How Much Does a Case of Pineapple Cost?
The cost of a pineapple case isn’t fixed—it shifts based on a web of factors that range from farm conditions to global shipping dynamics. Prices fluctuate with harvest yields, weather patterns, demand spikes, and logistics costs, so buyers should always treat case cost as a moving target rather than a static figure.
In practical terms, it helps to separate the main markets where pineapple cases are sold. Export programs, which ship crowned or crownless fruit internationally, generally command higher prices due to quality grading, certification, and freight costs. These cartons are often priced on the upper end of the scale. Foodservice cartons, like U.S. one-layer packs of six to eight fruit, fall into a midrange, where price depends heavily on count size and condition. Farm-direct programs, such as local grower cartons or simplified packouts, tend to be more affordable but may vary more widely in consistency and appearance.
Within each category, count size matters. Larger pineapples (coded as 5s or 6s) are fewer per case but heavier per fruit, and they often command a premium because they yield larger rings, spears, or decorative displays. Smaller counts (like 8s–10s) are easier for dicing and bulk prep but may price slightly lower.
External pressures also drive sudden swings. Holiday demand, when households and restaurants buy in volume, can push case prices higher. Similarly, storms, supply chain hiccups, or port delays may tighten availability and widen the price range overnight.
For readers comparing cases, the most practical approach is to check the current local market snapshot, which typically lists a range (for example, $17–32 per carton depending on count and quality). If you manage a resource or website, consider refreshing these ranges regularly and clearly labeling them as “snapshot pricing” so buyers understand the figures as guides rather than guarantees.
What Is the Size of a Case of Pineapple? / How Big Is a Case?
A representative fresh export carton measures ~600 × 400 × 140–160 mm (outer). The footprint nests well on 40×48-inch and 120×100 cm pallets and stacks cleanly in chilled back rooms.
Stackability and pallets
Ask your shipper for the pallet pattern (cases per layer × layers high). Keep stacks within safe lift heights for your team. For mixed pallets, place heavier counts (5s/6s) lower and display-ready cases on top for quick pulls.
Storage and handling
Keep cartons cool and ventilated. Avoid standing water and soggy floors that soften fiberboard. Cold enough to hold quality, warm enough to avoid chilling injury—aim for stability as much as any single number.
Uses of a Case of Pineapple
- Fresh-cut: bowls, parfaits, platter assortments, poke toppings.
- Culinary: salsa, chutney, sweet-heat glazes, roasted sides, grilled rings for burgers.
- Bakery & pastry: upside-down cakes, tarts, hand pies, semifreddo mix-ins.
- Beverage: smoothies, cold-pressed juices, tepache, shrubs, cordials.
- Preservation & garnish: dehydrated rings, candied tidbits, infused syrups.
- Catering & retail display: centerpieces, tropical end-caps, sampling trays.
Pick your count to match the cut: big rings love 5s/6s; spears and diced prep run fast on 7s/8s; juicing doesn’t care as long as your trim flow is efficient.
Case Weight & Calorie Chart (simple, scannable)
Metric cases
| Case net weight (kg) | Approx calories in full case* |
|---|---|
| 10 kg | ~5,000 kcal |
| 11.5 kg | ~5,750 kcal |
| 12 kg | ~6,000 kcal |
Imperial cases
| Case net weight (pounds) | Approx calories in full case* |
|---|---|
| 18 lb | ~4,100 kcal |
| 25 lb | ~5,000 kcal |
| 29 lb | ~5,800 kcal |
*Assume ~50 kcal per 100 g of edible pineapple. If you pack in syrup or blend with calorie-dense ingredients, adjust upward.
How to use it quickly
If your smoothie uses 200 g pineapple and targets 300 kcal, a 12-kilogram case (after trim) supports roughly 60 such portions—provided your trim and juicer yields match the ranges below.
How Much Weight Does a Case Lose When Juiced?
Think in two stages: trimming (peel/core removal) and extraction (juicer yield).
Stage 1: Whole fruit → trimmed flesh
Expect ~45–60% edible yield after removing peel and core. Larger fruit and skilled trimming tend to land on the higher end; smaller fruit or heavy eyes peel on the lower end.
Stage 2: Trimmed flesh → juice
From trimmed flesh, plan on ~55–70% juice on commercial machines and ~45–60% on home units, depending on the equipment and how finely you break down the fruit before feeding.
Combined reality check (worked example for planning)
- Start with a 12-kilogram export case.
- Trim at 55% → 6.6 kilograms of flesh.
- Extract at 65% → ~4.29 kilograms (≈ liters) of juice.
- If your shop sells 350 ml cups, that’s ~12 cups per case of pure pineapple juice. Blends stretch further.
Three-step calculator you can paste in your SOP
Case net → edible % → juicer % = liters
Swap the percentages for your exact setup and lock a conservative number for menu promises.
Use the “offcuts”
Cores extend juice blends nicely; peels become tepache or vinegar starters; pulp can enrich muffins and chutneys. Waste turns into value with a little creativity.
How Many Pineapples / Servings Are in a Case?
Counts and piece size
Most programs run 5s–8s. The count printed on the carton is how many pieces are inside, not the weight. Higher counts mean smaller pieces; lower counts mean larger pieces.
Servings benchmark
A practical serving benchmark is 1 cup ≈ 165 g ≈ 0.36 lb of pineapple. Your kitchen may portion differently, but this gives a consistent planning baseline.
Fast planning table (after trim)
| Case count | Typical fruit size | Cups per fruit (after trim) | Estimated cups per case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Very large | 6–8 cups | 30–40 cups |
| 6 | Large | 5–6 cups | 28–36 cups |
| 7 | Medium-large | 4–5.5 cups | 28–38.5 cups |
| 8 | Medium | 3.5–5 cups | 28–40 cups |
Reading the ranges
Use the higher end if fruit is large, firm-ripe, and trimmed efficiently; stick to the lower end if fruit runs small, soft, or eye-heavy. If you include cores for juicing, your beverage yield can beat the cup counts above.
Practical Playbooks (so the numbers turn into action)
1) Fresh-cut bowl program
- Spec: 150 g pineapple per bowl, mixed with other fruit.
- Inventory: US one-layer cartons ~27 pounds net (~12.2 kilograms).
- Plan: Assume 55% edible yield → ~6.7 kilograms usable per case → ~44–45 bowls at 150 g.
- Buffer: Add 10% for breakage, display, and sampling.
2) Juice bar weekend
- Spec: 350 ml pineapple-forward blend.
- Inventory: Export crowned cases 12 kilograms net.
- Yield plan: 60% trim → 7.2 kilograms; 65% juicer → ~4.68 liters.
- Cups per case: ~13 at 350 ml each (more if blending with water/coconut water or mixing fruits).
3) Catering for 250 guests
- Spec: 100 g pineapple per guest in a fruit medley.
- Inventory: Mix of 6s and 7s.
- Plan: At 55% edible, one 12-kilogram case yields ~6.6 kilograms usable = ~66 portions at 100 g.
- Order quantity: 4 cases covers 250 guests with a cushion for plating losses.
Conclusion
A pineapple case is a count-based carton designed around a net weight you can plan on. The essential benchmarks are simple:
- Export, crowned: 12 kilograms (about 26–27 pounds) per case.
- Export, crownless: 10.5 kilograms (about 23 pounds) per case.
- US one-layer: typically ~25–29 pounds (~11.5–13.2 kilograms) per case.
From there, your operation’s needs decide the rest. Choose counts to match the cuts you serve; select crown status based on processing speed and display goals; build price snapshots with a clear date; and always calculate yield through both trimming and extraction if you’re juicing. With those habits, the numbers stop drifting, and your team can buy smarter, prep faster, and serve better—week after week.
Fun Facts
- Count codes (5s–10s) show how many fruits per case; fewer fruit usually means bigger pieces.
- Crownless cartons pack tighter and move quickly through processing lines.
- Juicer type often changes output more than the label on the box.
- Aroma and firm-ripe feel tell you more about flavor than sheer weight.
- One 12-kilogram case often fuels a small café’s pineapple needs for a busy brunch window—if yields are dialed in.