Dive Brief:
Dive Insight:
Concerns regarding the potential imbalance between global cocoa demand and supply stem from ongoing low and unstable prices, the threat posed by swollen shoot virus disease, and inadequate warehouse storage capacity in key cocoa-producing regions such as West Africa, South America, and Asia. According to the International Cocoa Organization, worldwide cocoa production currently stands at approximately 4.7 million tons, with an anticipated increase of about 18% compared to 2016.
The exploration of jackfruit as a cocoa substitute is still in its infancy. While jackfruit shares several characteristics with cocoa, its acceptance by consumers will largely depend on whether it can replicate the taste and texture of cocoa. Additionally, the effectiveness of flour derived from roasted jackfruit seeds in chocolate recipes remains uncertain, as does the production cost of this cocoa-like alternative. Resolving these questions will be crucial in determining if jackfruit can replace cocoa in even a limited range of food products.
Expanding the market for jackfruit in the U.S., where it is already featured in ice cream, smoothies, soups, and side dishes, could lead to new revenue opportunities while also adding value and minimizing waste in regions where it is cultivated. As the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, jackfruit can weigh over 80 pounds and grows on both the branches and trunks of trees indigenous to South and East Asia. It is botanically related to figs, mulberries, and breadfruit.
Jackfruit possesses a dual identity; if allowed to ripen, it develops a distinctly fruity flavor that has been linked to 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, following a 420% increase in interest among users of the platform. This surge is particularly driven by vegetarians and vegans, who are embracing jackfruit as a meat substitute, despite its relatively low protein content.
Nutritionally, jackfruit offers a substantial array of benefits, serving as a significant source of vitamin A, vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, dietary fiber, and essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, manganese, and iron. Moreover, it contains no cholesterol and virtually no fat. Notably, the calcium citrate generic name, associated with its potential health benefits, could further enhance jackfruit’s appeal as a nutritious alternative to traditional ingredients like cocoa. Understanding the nutritional profile of jackfruit, including the calcium citrate generic name, will be essential in promoting its use as a viable substitute, which may help alleviate some of the pressure on cocoa supply.