A training session in preparing value-added products of jackfruit was launched at the District Industries Centre in Palakkad on Wednesday. Thirty youngsters are being trained by a group of experts.
The programme, organised by the Industries Department and voluntary organisation Experto Crade, aims at garnering maximum returns for jackfruit growers by finding good market for their produce.
“Our aim is zero wastage of each jackfruit. Value-added products made by these trained youngsters will help in marketing the fruit properly and ensure a steady income for farmers,” said Mangaluru-based activist Shree Padre, who is leading the expert team from Experto Crade.
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Varieties of jackfruits — varying in colour, taste, and size — were on display. Jackfruit-based ice cream, chocolate, squash, jelly, juice, bonda, papad, chips, peda, and halwa had ample number of admirers.
“The intention of the workshop is to send across a message to farmers that they can earn more by making value-addition to the crop, which is mostly underutilised. Jackfruit peda and halwa have huge demand in the international market. Jackfruit chocolates are also a hit,” said C.D. Suneesh, who is part of the team.
Padmini Sivadas from M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, who led the demonstrations, said she could make 350 products from jackfruit. “The fruit grows abundantly in India. But we waste a lot of it. When hoteliers conduct jackfruit festivals, plates are wiped clean in no time. But small-scale initiatives get very little support,” said Mr Padre.
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“We are worried about food security. It is then criminal that we waste approximately 75 per cent of the jackfruit we produce. It can ensure food security,” he said.