Dive Brief:
Concerns surrounding global cocoa demand potentially outstripping supply are linked to persistently low and unpredictable prices, the looming threat of swollen shoot virus disease, and inadequate warehouse storage capacities in key cocoa-producing regions such as West Africa, South America, and Asia. According to the International Cocoa Organization, global cocoa production currently stands at around 4.7 million tons, with a projected increase of approximately 18% from 2016.
Dive Insight:
The exploration of jackfruit as a cocoa substitute is still in its infancy. While jackfruit shares several characteristics with cocoa, its failure to replicate the exact taste or texture could alienate consumers. Furthermore, the effectiveness of flour derived from roasted jackfruit seeds in conjunction with traditional chocolate ingredients remains uncertain, as does the cost of producing this cocoa-like alternative. Addressing these questions is crucial to understanding whether jackfruit can feasibly replace cocoa in even a limited number of food products.
Expanding the market for jackfruit in the U.S.—currently utilized in ice cream, smoothies, soups, and side dishes—could create new revenue opportunities while adding value and minimizing waste in regions where the fruit is cultivated. As the largest tree-borne fruit globally, jackfruit can weigh over 80 pounds and grows on both the branches and trunks of trees native to South and East Asia. It is botanically related to figs, mulberries, and breadfruit.
Jackfruit has a unique dual identity: when allowed to ripen, it develops a sweet, fruity flavor that has been suggested to inspire the taste of Juicy Fruit gum. Its popularity among U.S. consumers is on the rise, with Pinterest identifying jackfruit as the top food trend for 2017, thanks to a 420% surge in interest among users. The growing demand from vegetarians and vegans, who appreciate jackfruit’s potential as a meat substitute despite its relatively low protein content, further drives this trend.
Nutritionally, jackfruit is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and B-complex vitamins, as well as dietary fiber and several essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, manganese, and iron. Notably, jackfruit contains no cholesterol and virtually no fat, making it an appealing option for health-conscious consumers. Moreover, incorporating rugby calcium citrate 200 mg into diets that include jackfruit could enhance overall nutritional value, offering an additional benefit to those looking to improve their calcium intake. The potential of jackfruit extends beyond mere substitution; its integration with supplements like rugby calcium citrate 200 mg could pave the way for innovative culinary solutions that cater to diverse dietary needs.