Artocarpus heterophyllus or “Jackfruit”
Artocarpus heterophyllus or “jackfruit” belongs to the mulberry family (Balinga, Shivashankara, Haniadka, Dsouza, & Bhat, 2011). It is believed to have originated in the rainforests of South Western India. The jackfruit is the largest tree born fruit found throughout the world. It can weigh up to 45 kg (Sidhu, 2012).
Growing Conditions
Jackfruit is a seed propagated species that has extremely high yield potential (Sidhu, 2012). It is most commonly grown by planting the seed 2-3 cm deep in a hole. These holes are then filled with compost or manure and covered with mulch (Sidhu, 2012). After this they are watered on a regular basis, and after approximately 10 days germination occurs (Sidhu, 2012).
Jackfruits trees are very versatile. In Nepal they are primarily grown in the Terai area which accounts for 23% of Nepal’s land, covering 34,019 km2. Jackfruit trees can survive in a variety of conditions from tropical to subtropical (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Jackfruit trees are typically found in moist lowland forests with an average rainfall of 1000-2400 mm. Although they can survive in seasonally dry climates, they grow best in climates that have uniform rainfall patterns. They grow in a variety of soils and require acid to neutral soils with a pH level of 5.0-7.5. Jackfruit trees are cold tolerant, and able to survive in light frost. Along with this, jackfruit is 3-4 months drought tolerant and wind tolerant (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Jackfruit trees are also rarely affected by weeds (Sidhu, 2012). Jackfruit is often faced with the issue of depletion in the soil where it is to be grown, as the Terai is a heavily cultivated area of Nepal (Pariyar, 2005). Though in some cases pest and disease tolerant varieties have been documented, jackfruit trees are faced with the issue of diseases such as pink disease, leaf spot, collar rot, and rust. As well they are threatened with pests such as Indarbela tetraonis, Margaronia caecalis and Batocera rufomaculata (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Benefits to growing this species are that it can be used for shading, intercropping, as wind break and to control soil erosion (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006).
Labour Required/ Cost/ Issues
Jackfruit trees are usually planted, maintained and harvested by family labour (Sidhu, 2012). As most of the trees are planted from seedlings, this species is not very labour intensive (Sidhu, 2012). To begin with, seeds must be watered frequently (Sidhu, 2012). Fortunately weeds are not a large issue for this fruit, and pruning is not needed, drastically reducing the amount of maintenance (Sidhu, 2012). Once planted these trees can live up to 100-120 years, however, the amount of fruit being produced decreases as it ages (Sidhu, 2012). Most farmers do not use fertilizer, and manure only needs to be applied twice a year if it is used, therefore farmers do not have to spend a lot of money on crop management practices (Sidhu, 2012). In one hectare, there is approximately 100 trees on average, and there are around 250 fruits per tree (Sidhu, 2012). As well, there are approximately 500 seeds in each fruit (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Farmers have been known to make up to $5000 US per hectare (Sidhu, 2012). Though the cost to establish one hectare of jackfruit trees is usually $1000 US per year, there are no additional costs once the trees start fruiting (Sidhu, 2012). Along with this, farmers can lease the land to grow other crops, or grow other crops of their own for the first years to cover maintenance costs (Sidhu, 2012).
Health/ Nutrition
Main Components of Jackfruit per 100 g (Balinga et al., 2011)
Composition (per 100g) Ripe Jackfruit Jackfruit Seed
Water (g) 94 64
Energy (Kj) 410 139
Protein (g) 1.9 7.04
Fat (g) 0.4 0.43
Carbohydrates (g) 25.4 38.4
Fiber (g) 1.5 1.5
Calcium (mg) 37 50
In general, the jackfruit is a very nutritious fruit. It is rich in carbohydrates and protein, calcium, and potassium, as well as Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Vitamin C (Balinga et al., 2011). The extracts from the seeds are very helpful in digestion. It works well in treating dysentery and diarrhea (Balinga et al., 2011). Along with this, it can aid in constipation (Balinga et al., 2011). The seed contains a variety of micro and macro-nutrient quantities ideal for nutrition.
Economic Benefits to Nepal
Currently, Nepal has a population of 27.8 million, with a GDP of 19.29 billion, and a GDP growth rate of 3.8% (The World Bank, 2013). In the Terai portion of the country Terai farming contributes to 47% of Nepal’s agriculture GDP, and crops dominate agriculture production in Nepal. Crop agriculture accounts for 80% of household incomes in this region (Pariyar, 2005). According to a study done by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), “tree crops” have high potential for agricultural growth and moderate potential for poverty reduction in Nepal (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2001). There are currently 47 promising varieties of jackfruit found in Nepal (Sidhu, 2012). Among the increasing crop varieties throughout the world, there have been varieties found that bare fruit multiple times a year, as well as pest and disease tolerant varieties (Sidhu, 2012).
Currently jackfruit trees are grown primarily in backyards in Nepal and not in the form of an orchard which would be ideal for export of this item (Thomas, 1980). The best option for Nepal would be to produce this crop for the fruit itself, and the fleshy pulp it contains, its seeds, and the wood it produces (Thomas, 1980). The nutritious seeds may be an ideal export options: they can be boiled, roasted, or cooked into a variety of food dishes (Balinga et al.). Cooking these seeds increases their shelf life. As well they can be produced in canned form similar to beans, or crushed up into flower (Balinga et al.).
To further improve the production of jackfruit, more research and development are needed (Sidhu, 2012). Currently the varieties of this species being used for commercial purposes have been bred by knowledgeable growers, but there is much room for improvement (Sidhu, 2012). Biotechnology can be of great value to Nepal (Sidhu, 2012). It would be beneficial to breed a variety that has a reduced tree height, an order to assist in areas with high density planting, and one tolerant to saline soils, pests and diseases (Sidhu, 2012). Along with this, an increase in information and education is necessary for Nepalese farmers. With increased education comes increased agricultural skills that could greatly benefit local communities (FAO, 2001). With help from farming, it is estimated that by 2030 most farm households will receive basic education, including women and children (FAO, 2001)
Export Potential
Jackfruit has great export potential for Nepal. If processed in Nepal, shipping costs would be drastically less expensive, and shelf life would be increased (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). It can last up to a month refrigerated as a full fruit, or just the seeds, and even longer if processed (Sidhu, 2012). In Canada, a niche market could be created due to the fact that jackfruit is almost always grown organically and is very nutritious (Sidhu, 2012). This is a very appealing characteristic for many people in Canada, with health becoming more and more important to the average consumer. In order to import a vegetable or fruit into Canada there are strict guidelines to be followed. Prescribed container sizes are not to exceed 50 kg, meaning these fruits should be processed and packed in containers to fit these requirements (Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 2014). A “COS” or confirmation of sale form is necessary. As well, the proper documentation from The National Import Service Centre must be completed and processed (CFIA, 2014). Finally, there is a variety of potential venues in which this product could be sold once imported to Canada. A focus on Asian food markets would be beneficial as jackfruit and jackfruit seeds are used in a variety of Asian cuisines. Two main food markets to focus on include T & T Supermarket and Anchor Foods International Ltd. Both of these markets are well known wholesalers in Canada, and have great potential. Along with this, Canadian grocery stores such as No Frills should be a target . No Frills now carries an Asian food section in its different locations.
Contact Information
Anchor Foods International Limited
604-273-0136
T & T Supermarket
416-297-8113
No Frills
1—800-296-2332
References
Baliga, M., Shivashankara, A., Haniadka, R., Dsouza, J., & Bhat, H. (2011). Phytochemistry, nutritional and pharmacological properties of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam (jackfruit): A review. Food Research International, 44(7), 1800-1811. Retrieved November 9, 2014, from http://www.sciencedirect.com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/science/article/pii/S0963996911001372
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (2014). Overview- Import and interprovincial requirements for fresh fruits and vegetables. Retrieved November 14, 2014, from http://www.inspection.gc.ca/food/fresh-fruits-and-vegetables/imports-and-interprovincial-trade/overview/eng/1361145453562/1361146543611
Elevitch, C., & Manner, H. (2006). Species profiles for pacific island agroforestry: Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit). Retrieved November 13, 2014, from http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/extn_pub/fruitpubs/A.heterophyllus-jackfruit.pdf
Food and Agriculture Organization (2001). Farming systems and poverty. Retrieved November, 9, 2014, from http://www.fao.org/docrep/003/y1860e/y1860e07.htm#TopOfPage
Pariyar, D. (2005). Country pasture/Forage resource profiles. Retrieved November 10, 2014, from http://www.fao.org/ag/AGP/AGPC/doc/Counprof/Nepal/nepal.htm#agro
Sidhu, A. (2012). Jackfruit improvement in the asia-pacific region - A status report. Retrieved November 8, 2014, from http://www.apaari.org/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/10/Jackfruit-A-Success-Story_31-8-2012.pdf
The World Bank. (2013). Data: Nepal. Retrieved November 10, 2014, from http://data.worldbank.org/country/nepal
Thomas, C. (1980). Jackfruit, Artocarpus heterophyllus (moraceae), as source of food and income. Economic Botany, 34(2), 154-159. Retrieved November 13, 2014, from http://journals2.scholarsportal.info.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/details/00130001/v34i0002/154_jhasofai.xml
Artocarpus heterophyllus or “jackfruit” belongs to the mulberry family (Balinga, Shivashankara, Haniadka, Dsouza, & Bhat, 2011). It is believed to have originated in the rainforests of South Western India. The jackfruit is the largest tree born fruit found throughout the world. It can weigh up to 45 kg (Sidhu, 2012).
Growing Conditions
Jackfruit is a seed propagated species that has extremely high yield potential (Sidhu, 2012). It is most commonly grown by planting the seed 2-3 cm deep in a hole. These holes are then filled with compost or manure and covered with mulch (Sidhu, 2012). After this they are watered on a regular basis, and after approximately 10 days germination occurs (Sidhu, 2012).
Jackfruits trees are very versatile. In Nepal they are primarily grown in the Terai area which accounts for 23% of Nepal’s land, covering 34,019 km2. Jackfruit trees can survive in a variety of conditions from tropical to subtropical (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Jackfruit trees are typically found in moist lowland forests with an average rainfall of 1000-2400 mm. Although they can survive in seasonally dry climates, they grow best in climates that have uniform rainfall patterns. They grow in a variety of soils and require acid to neutral soils with a pH level of 5.0-7.5. Jackfruit trees are cold tolerant, and able to survive in light frost. Along with this, jackfruit is 3-4 months drought tolerant and wind tolerant (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Jackfruit trees are also rarely affected by weeds (Sidhu, 2012). Jackfruit is often faced with the issue of depletion in the soil where it is to be grown, as the Terai is a heavily cultivated area of Nepal (Pariyar, 2005). Though in some cases pest and disease tolerant varieties have been documented, jackfruit trees are faced with the issue of diseases such as pink disease, leaf spot, collar rot, and rust. As well they are threatened with pests such as Indarbela tetraonis, Margaronia caecalis and Batocera rufomaculata (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Benefits to growing this species are that it can be used for shading, intercropping, as wind break and to control soil erosion (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006).
Labour Required/ Cost/ Issues
Jackfruit trees are usually planted, maintained and harvested by family labour (Sidhu, 2012). As most of the trees are planted from seedlings, this species is not very labour intensive (Sidhu, 2012). To begin with, seeds must be watered frequently (Sidhu, 2012). Fortunately weeds are not a large issue for this fruit, and pruning is not needed, drastically reducing the amount of maintenance (Sidhu, 2012). Once planted these trees can live up to 100-120 years, however, the amount of fruit being produced decreases as it ages (Sidhu, 2012). Most farmers do not use fertilizer, and manure only needs to be applied twice a year if it is used, therefore farmers do not have to spend a lot of money on crop management practices (Sidhu, 2012). In one hectare, there is approximately 100 trees on average, and there are around 250 fruits per tree (Sidhu, 2012). As well, there are approximately 500 seeds in each fruit (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). Farmers have been known to make up to $5000 US per hectare (Sidhu, 2012). Though the cost to establish one hectare of jackfruit trees is usually $1000 US per year, there are no additional costs once the trees start fruiting (Sidhu, 2012). Along with this, farmers can lease the land to grow other crops, or grow other crops of their own for the first years to cover maintenance costs (Sidhu, 2012).
Health/ Nutrition
Main Components of Jackfruit per 100 g (Balinga et al., 2011)
Composition (per 100g) Ripe Jackfruit Jackfruit Seed
Water (g) 94 64
Energy (Kj) 410 139
Protein (g) 1.9 7.04
Fat (g) 0.4 0.43
Carbohydrates (g) 25.4 38.4
Fiber (g) 1.5 1.5
Calcium (mg) 37 50
In general, the jackfruit is a very nutritious fruit. It is rich in carbohydrates and protein, calcium, and potassium, as well as Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Vitamin C (Balinga et al., 2011). The extracts from the seeds are very helpful in digestion. It works well in treating dysentery and diarrhea (Balinga et al., 2011). Along with this, it can aid in constipation (Balinga et al., 2011). The seed contains a variety of micro and macro-nutrient quantities ideal for nutrition.
Economic Benefits to Nepal
Currently, Nepal has a population of 27.8 million, with a GDP of 19.29 billion, and a GDP growth rate of 3.8% (The World Bank, 2013). In the Terai portion of the country Terai farming contributes to 47% of Nepal’s agriculture GDP, and crops dominate agriculture production in Nepal. Crop agriculture accounts for 80% of household incomes in this region (Pariyar, 2005). According to a study done by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), “tree crops” have high potential for agricultural growth and moderate potential for poverty reduction in Nepal (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2001). There are currently 47 promising varieties of jackfruit found in Nepal (Sidhu, 2012). Among the increasing crop varieties throughout the world, there have been varieties found that bare fruit multiple times a year, as well as pest and disease tolerant varieties (Sidhu, 2012).
Currently jackfruit trees are grown primarily in backyards in Nepal and not in the form of an orchard which would be ideal for export of this item (Thomas, 1980). The best option for Nepal would be to produce this crop for the fruit itself, and the fleshy pulp it contains, its seeds, and the wood it produces (Thomas, 1980). The nutritious seeds may be an ideal export options: they can be boiled, roasted, or cooked into a variety of food dishes (Balinga et al.). Cooking these seeds increases their shelf life. As well they can be produced in canned form similar to beans, or crushed up into flower (Balinga et al.).
To further improve the production of jackfruit, more research and development are needed (Sidhu, 2012). Currently the varieties of this species being used for commercial purposes have been bred by knowledgeable growers, but there is much room for improvement (Sidhu, 2012). Biotechnology can be of great value to Nepal (Sidhu, 2012). It would be beneficial to breed a variety that has a reduced tree height, an order to assist in areas with high density planting, and one tolerant to saline soils, pests and diseases (Sidhu, 2012). Along with this, an increase in information and education is necessary for Nepalese farmers. With increased education comes increased agricultural skills that could greatly benefit local communities (FAO, 2001). With help from farming, it is estimated that by 2030 most farm households will receive basic education, including women and children (FAO, 2001)
Export Potential
Jackfruit has great export potential for Nepal. If processed in Nepal, shipping costs would be drastically less expensive, and shelf life would be increased (Elevitch, & Manner, 2006). It can last up to a month refrigerated as a full fruit, or just the seeds, and even longer if processed (Sidhu, 2012). In Canada, a niche market could be created due to the fact that jackfruit is almost always grown organically and is very nutritious (Sidhu, 2012). This is a very appealing characteristic for many people in Canada, with health becoming more and more important to the average consumer. In order to import a vegetable or fruit into Canada there are strict guidelines to be followed. Prescribed container sizes are not to exceed 50 kg, meaning these fruits should be processed and packed in containers to fit these requirements (Canadian Food Inspection Agency, 2014). A “COS” or confirmation of sale form is necessary. As well, the proper documentation from The National Import Service Centre must be completed and processed (CFIA, 2014). Finally, there is a variety of potential venues in which this product could be sold once imported to Canada. A focus on Asian food markets would be beneficial as jackfruit and jackfruit seeds are used in a variety of Asian cuisines. Two main food markets to focus on include T & T Supermarket and Anchor Foods International Ltd. Both of these markets are well known wholesalers in Canada, and have great potential. Along with this, Canadian grocery stores such as No Frills should be a target . No Frills now carries an Asian food section in its different locations.
Contact Information
Anchor Foods International Limited
604-273-0136
T & T Supermarket
416-297-8113
No Frills
1—800-296-2332
References
Baliga, M., Shivashankara, A., Haniadka, R., Dsouza, J., & Bhat, H. (2011). Phytochemistry, nutritional and pharmacological properties of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam (jackfruit): A review. Food Research International, 44(7), 1800-1811. Retrieved November 9, 2014, from http://www.sciencedirect.com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/science/article/pii/S0963996911001372
Canadian Food Inspection Agency (2014). Overview- Import and interprovincial requirements for fresh fruits and vegetables. Retrieved November 14, 2014, from http://www.inspection.gc.ca/food/fresh-fruits-and-vegetables/imports-and-interprovincial-trade/overview/eng/1361145453562/1361146543611
Elevitch, C., & Manner, H. (2006). Species profiles for pacific island agroforestry: Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit). Retrieved November 13, 2014, from http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sustainag/extn_pub/fruitpubs/A.heterophyllus-jackfruit.pdf
Food and Agriculture Organization (2001). Farming systems and poverty. Retrieved November, 9, 2014, from http://www.fao.org/docrep/003/y1860e/y1860e07.htm#TopOfPage
Pariyar, D. (2005). Country pasture/Forage resource profiles. Retrieved November 10, 2014, from http://www.fao.org/ag/AGP/AGPC/doc/Counprof/Nepal/nepal.htm#agro
Sidhu, A. (2012). Jackfruit improvement in the asia-pacific region - A status report. Retrieved November 8, 2014, from http://www.apaari.org/wp-content/uploads/downloads/2012/10/Jackfruit-A-Success-Story_31-8-2012.pdf
The World Bank. (2013). Data: Nepal. Retrieved November 10, 2014, from http://data.worldbank.org/country/nepal
Thomas, C. (1980). Jackfruit, Artocarpus heterophyllus (moraceae), as source of food and income. Economic Botany, 34(2), 154-159. Retrieved November 13, 2014, from http://journals2.scholarsportal.info.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/details/00130001/v34i0002/154_jhasofai.xml