Jack fruit or commonly known as ‘chakka’ among the malayalis down Kerala, is one of the classic example of Mother Nature’s abundant resources provided to mankind.
Known as world’s largest fruit it weighs around 80 pounds(35 kg) and is grown in tropical areas mostly in southwest region .It is a major achievement in the field of agriculture by keralities to transform this fruit into mouthwatering delicacies yet beneficial to health and a means for livelihood for people.
An entrepreneur Mr. James from Kerala who was an ex Microsoft Director has shown to humanity that through sheer perseverance and dedication one can make use of this fruit rather than considering it to be a waste …He saw his future in this fruit and gave up his job in Microsoft to become an entrepreneur, his firm jackfruit 360degree is known for its manufacturing various products such as ice-cream ,smoothies ,pie, evening snack ,ready to cook items from our very own chakka/ jack fruit .
Not only this, in terms of health benefits as well, has it left behind all the major fruits available in India…. Jack fruit helps in preventing some of the chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes mellitus due to the presence of antioxidants in it .It is rich in nutrients ,vitamins ,protein and some amount of fibers .Other potential health benefits includes providing immunity and preventing skin problems …. In traditional India and Sri Lanka its roots and extracts have been used to treat asthma, diarrhea and stomach ulcers but scientifically it is not yet proven.
Jack fruit is versatile and can be eaten in raw or cooked form,to prepare it, you want to slice it in half and remove the yellow pods, sweet and savory dishes can be prepared based on the ripeness of the fruit. Benefits are followed by some amount of risk, if , people who are allergic to birch pollens should avoid or limit its use on regular basis ,and due to its potency to lower blood glucose level diabetic’s may need to change their medication dosage as well.
This fruit had indeed proven its worth to be known and accepted by people in Kerala as their official state fruit.
