Jackfruit Products

Abstract

The jackfruit botanically known as Artocarpus heterophyllus lam, one of the popular fruits of India, is believed to be indigenous in our country. It is grown extensively in the west coast, Assam, West Bengal, Orissa and Bihar. The name jack is said to be an adoption of Portuguese ‘Jaca’ which in turn is believed to have originated from Malayalam name of the fruit, namely ‘Chakka’. Among the other Indian names of the fruit are: Pansa (Sanskrit and Telagu), Katahal (Hindi), Phanas (Marathi), Pala (Tamil), Halasu (Kannada). Fully ripe jackfruit is sweet and has an exotic flavour. The bulbs (edible flakes) contain 7.5% sugar on dry weight basis and a fair amount of Carotene (Vitamin A). The seeds are rich in Carbohydrates and also a good source of Vitamins. Ripe fruits are used for nectar and jams. Unripe fruits are also used for culinary preparations like chips, pickles, etc.