Jackfruit

Description

Jackfruit is a large, and tropical fruit that is native to South and Southeast Asia. It is part of the mulberry family and is one of the largest tree-borne fruits in the world, with some weighing up to 100 pounds. The exterior of the fruit is green and covered in a tough, spiky rind, that covers a fleshy interior filled with individual bulbous, yellow or slightly orange flesh pods, each surrounding a large seed.

The fruit has a distinctive, sweet, slightly tangy and a unique flavor, and a sticky, fibrous texture, and has been compared to a combination of mango and banana. And that makes it a popular ingredient in many vegetarian and vegan dishes. Besides its delicious flavor, jackfruit is also a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to a healthy diet. Jackfruit is often eaten fresh, but it can also be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.

Wild ancestors

The wild ancestor of jackfruit is Artocarpus heterophyllus, a species of the Artocarpus genus that is native to the rainforests of South and Southeast Asia. This species is still found in the wild in many regions of Southeast Asia and is considered to be the progenitor of the domesticated Jackfruit.

Artocarpus heterophyllus has been used for thousands of years by indigenous people for food, medicine, and as a source of wood for building. It is also considered to be an important source of genetic diversity for breeding programs aimed at improving the commercial Jackfruit.

The wild Jackfruit is smaller and more fibrous than the domesticated variety, but it is still consumed in many regions of Southeast Asia and is considered to be a nutritious and valuable food source.

History

Jackfruit is believed to have originated in the southwestern rain forests of India and is one of the largest tree-borne fruits in the world. It is believed to have been cultivated for thousands of years and is mentioned in Hindu scriptures and Indian literature dating back to the 6th century. Jackfruit has been a staple food in many parts of South and Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, and Philippines.

The fruit was introduced to other parts of the world, including Africa and the Caribbean, through trade and cultural exchange. Today, jackfruit is grown in many tropical and subtropical countries around the world, and is a valuable food source due to its large size, high nutritional content, and versatility in cooking.

In recent years, jackfruit has gained popularity as a vegetarian alternative to meat due to its meat-like texture when unripe and is being used in a variety of dishes, including curries, stews, and sandwiches.

Cultivars

There are many cultivars of jackfruit, which vary in size, shape, color, texture, and flavor. Some of the most popular cultivars of jackfruit include:

Ceylon: This is a small to medium-sized jackfruit that has a sweet and aromatic flavor.

NS1: This is a popular commercial cultivar of jackfruit that is grown in Southeast Asia. It has a large fruit size, a sweet flavor, and a high yield.

NS2: This is another commercial cultivar of jackfruit that is similar to NS1, but it has a smaller fruit size and a milder flavor.

J-30: This is a large-sized jackfruit that has a sweet flavor and a crunchy texture.

Maha Chanok: This is a Thai cultivar of jackfruit that has a small to medium-sized fruit with a sweet and flavorful flesh.

Dang Rasimi: This is another Thai cultivar of jackfruit that has a small to medium-sized fruit with a sweet and juicy flesh.

Golden Nugget: This is a dwarf cultivar of jackfruit that is suitable for growing in containers. It has a small fruit size and a sweet flavor.

Cultivars of Bangladeshi Jackfruit

Kathal 3: This is a popular cultivar of jackfruit in Bangladesh, known for its sweet taste and soft texture. It has a high yield and is resistant to many diseases.

BARI Kathal-1: This is a high-yielding jackfruit cultivar developed by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI). It has a unique taste and aroma and is resistant to many pests and diseases.

Dhol Pata Kathal: This is a cultivar of jackfruit with a unique, cylindrical shape. It has a sweet taste and a tender texture, and is often used in traditional Bengali cuisine.

Bara Kathal: This is a popular cultivar of jackfruit in Bangladesh, known for its large size and sweet taste. It has a high yield and is resistant to many diseases.

Anjana: This is a jackfruit cultivar with a small to medium size fruit. It has a sweet taste and is known for its tender texture. It is often used in traditional Bengali sweets.

Safeda Kathal: This is a cultivar of jackfruit with a light yellow flesh and a sweet taste. It is often used in curries and other savory dishes in Bengali cuisine.

Black Gold: This is a unique cultivar of jackfruit that is a new cultivar of jackfruit developed in Bangladesh. It has a dark green skin and a sweet, juicy flavor and a golden yellow flesh. It is resistant to many pests and diseases and has a high yield.

These are just a few examples of the many different cultivars of jackfruit that are grown around the world. Each cultivar has its own unique characteristics and is prized for its particular qualities.

Production

Jackfruit is grown in many countries and it is estimated that the global production of Jackfruit is approximately 5 million metric tons per year. The worldwide yearly production of jackfruit is difficult to estimate precisely because it is primarily grown in smallholder farms and there is no centralized database to track production.

However, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, the top 10 jackfruit-producing countries in 2019 were:

India - 2,287,708 metric tons
Bangladesh - 562,000 metric tons
Thailand - 561,000 metric tons
Indonesia - 454,774 metric tons
Nepal - 194,000 metric tons
Philippines - 145,954 metric tons
Sri Lanka - 137,700 metric tons
Vietnam - 91,268 metric tons
Myanmar - 73,000 metric tons
Malaysia - 56,242 metric tons

These numbers are just estimates and may not be entirely accurate, but they give a general idea of the countries that produce the most jackfruit. It is also important to note that jackfruit production varies from year to year depending on weather conditions, disease outbreaks, and other factors.

Jackfruit trees are native to South and Southeast Asia, and they can grow up to 80 feet in height. The tree requires a tropical climate with abundant rainfall and a temperature range of 25-35°C.

Propagation: Jackfruit trees can be propagated through seeds or vegetative methods like grafting, budding, and air layering. The seeds are removed from the ripe fruit, washed, and sown in well-drained soil. The seedlings are transplanted to the field after six to eight months.

Cultivation: The jackfruit trees require fertile soil rich in organic matter. The trees need regular watering, especially during the dry season, and they should be protected from strong winds. Pruning and shaping are necessary to maintain the tree's height and shape.

Harvesting: Jackfruit trees start bearing fruits after 4-5 years of planting. The fruit is harvested when it reaches maturity, which can take 80-120 days after flowering. The fruit is harvested by cutting the stalk near the fruit's base, and it can weigh up to 30-50 kg.

Post-harvest handling: The jackfruit should be stored in a cool and dry place to prevent spoilage. The fruit's outer skin is tough and spiky, and it requires a skilled person to cut it open and remove the edible flesh. The flesh can be eaten fresh or processed into different products like chips, jam, and canned fruit.

In a whole, the production of jackfruit requires a conducive environment and proper care and handling to ensure a bountiful harvest and quality products.

Nutrients

Jackfruit is known for its sweet and fruity flavor. It is also rich in nutrients and can provide a variety of health benefits. Some of the nutrients found in jackfruit include:

Fiber: Jackfruit is a great source of dietary fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.

Vitamin C: Jackfruit contains a high amount of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient that helps support the immune system, fight off infections, and maintain healthy skin.

Potassium: Jackfruit is a good source of potassium, which is an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and maintain heart health.

Magnesium: Jackfruit is also a good source of magnesium, which is a mineral that helps regulate nerve and muscle function, maintain bone health, and support the immune system.

Antioxidants: Jackfruit contains a variety of antioxidants, including carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

B Vitamins: Jackfruit contains a variety of B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin, which are important for energy production and brain function.

In general, jackfruit is a nutritious and delicious fruit that can provide a range of health benefits.

Uses

Food: The ripe jackfruit can be eaten raw. Unripe fruit can be cooked, and that is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines. The unripe fruit can also be used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Snacks: The seeds of the jackfruit can be roasted and eaten as a snack or used as a replacement for chestnuts in recipes.

Medicinal properties: The bark, leaves, and roots of the jackfruit tree have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Timber: The wood of the jackfruit tree is durable and used for furniture, construction, and other purposes.

Animal feed: The unripe jackfruit, leaves of the jackfruit tree is also used as animal feed for livestock.

Cosmetics: The oil extracted from the seeds of the jackfruit is used in cosmetic products such as soaps and shampoos.

Fertilizer: The leaves of the jackfruit tree can be used as a natural fertilizer for plants.

Paper-making: The fiber extracted from the jackfruit tree can be used to make paper.

Health Benefits

High in Nutrients
Jackfruit is rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants.

Lowers Blood Pressure
Jackfruit contains potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and prevent hypertension.

Boosts Immunity
The high levels of vitamin C in jackfruit can help boost the immune system and fight off infections.

Improves Digestion
Jackfruit is rich in fiber, which helps to improve digestion, prevent constipation, and promote regular bowel movements.

Supports Weight Loss

Jackfruit is low in calories and high in fiber, making it an ideal food for those trying to lose weight.

Improves Heart Health
Jackfruit is high in potassium, which can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

Anti-Inflammatory
Anti-inflammatory properties are present in jackfruit, can help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent chronic diseases.

Supports Bone Health
Jackfruit is a good source of calcium and magnesium, which can help support bone health and prevent osteoporosis.

Regulates Blood Sugar
Jackfruit contains natural sugars that are slowly released into the bloodstream, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Improves Skin Health
Vitamin C and antioxidants are in jackfruit, which can help improve skin health and prevent signs of aging.

Cosmetic Benefits

Jackfruit is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your diet. It also has numerous cosmetic benefits, including:

Anti-aging properties
Jackfruit is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. This can help prevent premature aging and keep your skin looking youthful.

Skin hydration
Jackfruit contains a high amount of water, which makes it an excellent natural moisturizer. When applied topically, it can help hydrate your skin and prevent dryness.

Anti-inflammatory

Jackfruit is rich in phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory properties. This can help reduce redness and irritation on your skin, making it look more even and radiant.

Collagen production

Jackfruit is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for collagen production. Collagen is a protein that is responsible for keeping your skin firm and elastic, so consuming jackfruit can help keep your skin looking plump and youthful.

Anti-acne properties

Jackfruit contains natural antibacterial properties that can help fight off acne-causing bacteria. It also helps regulate oil production on your skin, making it less prone to breakouts.

On the whole, jackfruit is a fantastic fruit for promoting healthy skin and preventing the signs of aging.

Discretion

Jackfruit has a strong and distinct smell, which some people may find overpowering or unpleasant. However, its taste and texture can be quite versatile and enjoyable, making it a popular ingredient in vegan and vegetarian cuisine as a meat substitute. It is up to individual discretion whether or not they enjoy the taste and smell of jackfruit.

Jackfruit is a healthy fruit, but it is also high in calories and carbohydrates. Therefore, it is important to consume jackfruit in moderation, especially if you have a specific health condition that requires you to limit your intake of carbohydrates or sugar.

Overeating jackfruit may cause bloating, gas, stomach ache, and diarrhea. The high fiber content in jackfruit may be difficult for some people to digest, especially if they are not used to consuming a lot of fiber. It is recommended to eat jackfruit in moderation and in combination with a balanced diet to avoid any digestive discomfort.