Why Jackfruit Is the Superfood We All Need This Summer

As summer arrives in India, so does the season of jackfruit — a giant green fruit with a spiky exterior and a treasure trove of benefits inside. While many enjoy it raw or cooked in traditional curries, few realise that jackfruit is more than a seasonal treat. It’s a powerhouse of nutrition, a sustainable crop, and a growing favourite among vegans worldwide.

Why jackfruit is the king of summer

Native to India, the jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, sometimes weighing up to 40 kg! In states like Kerala, Karnataka, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, it has been a staple food for centuries, known locally as kathal in the North and chakka in Kerala.

But beyond its size and flavour, jackfruit is rich in fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. With vitamin C and potassium, it’s a refreshing summer pick that helps keep you nourished and hydrated in the sweltering heat.

A superfood with a sustainable future

Did you know that jackfruit could be a solution to global food insecurity? Unlike water-intensive crops such as rice and wheat, jackfruit trees thrive in dry conditions with minimal care. They require little fertiliser and produce high yields, making them an excellent alternative in regions facing climate challenges.

Despite being the world's largest jackfruit producer, India sees nearly 60% of its harvest go to waste due to limited processing and storage. In recent years, however, startups and entrepreneurs have begun tapping into its potential — turning jackfruit into flour, ready-to-cook meals, and even chips!

The vegan favourite taking over the world

Jackfruit’s meaty texture has made it a global sensation in plant-based diets. In Western countries, it is used as a substitute for pulled pork in burgers, tacos, and curries. Brands like Jack & Bry in the UK and The Jackfruit Company in the US are revolutionising the way people consume this humble fruit.

Even in India, chefs are experimenting with jackfruit-based dishes such as biryani, kebabs, and even desserts. Beyond these, traditional preparations like jackfruit pickle (chakka varatti) in Kerala and jackfruit seed curries in Karnataka and Maharashtra are also widely enjoyed. The seeds, rich in protein and fibre, are often roasted, boiled, or added to stir-fries, making them an excellent and sustainable food source.

A fruit with endless possibilities

What was once a backyard staple is now finding its way into supply chains, with startups and cooperatives in India tapping into its potential. From processed jackfruit flour to ready-to-cook meals, this humble fruit is slowly carving out its place in the global market while offering local growers a chance to turn surplus produce into sustainable income. 

From its nutritional value to its eco-friendly benefits and culinary versatility, jackfruit is truly a summer superfood. Whether you enjoy it raw, cooked, or as a meat substitute, one thing is certain — this fruit is here to stay.

Edited by Khushi Arora