Jackfruit processing, value addition to cut post-harvest losses stressed

RAJSHAHI, Apr 19 (BSS): Agricultural experts and researchers have emphasised the importance of jackfruit processing using modern technologies to preserve its value and minimise post-harvest losses.
They highlighted the significance while sharing their insights with BSS, focusing on strategies for reducing jackfruit wastage and improving its marketing and value chain development.
Dr Golam Ferdous Chowdhury, a renowned jackfruit expert, elaborated on various value addition opportunities for the seasonal fruit.
He said a single jackfruit can weigh between 5 and 30 kilograms and contains hundreds of nutrient-rich seeds packed with protein, potassium, calcium, and iron-all essential for human growth. The Postharvest Technology Division of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) has been actively working in this field to reduce wastage by promoting jackfruit processing at the grassroots level. As part of the initiative, farmers are being trained to prepare various food products from jackfruit to enhance their income and reduce waste. Under a three-year project currently being implemented in eight districts, numerous promotional activities are being carried out to increase jackfruit's popularity.
"It's a miracle fruit. It offers a wealth of nutrients and calories-everything one needs," said Dr Ferdous Chowdhury, Senior Scientific Officer at PHTD.
He noted that jackfruit, the national fruit of Bangladesh, enjoys growing demand in international markets. However, an estimated 50 percent of jackfruits,
valued at around Taka 500 crore annually, are wasted due to lack of timely consumption or preservation.