How are companies addressing the challenge of jackfruit's short shelf life to improve its market reach?

Preview
Companies are employing various strategies and innovations to address the challenge of jackfruit's short shelf life and improve its market reach. Here are some key approaches:

1. Canning and Freezing

  • Canning: Canned jackfruit typically has a labeled expiration date, indicating the period during which the product retains its best quality. When stored in a cool, dry, and dark location, commercially canned jackfruit maintains its best quality for approximately 12 to 18 months.
  • Freezing: Freezing jackfruit is another effective method to extend its shelf life. By placing jackfruit pieces in an airtight, heavy-duty freezer bag or container, the ripening process is slowed down, allowing for long-term storage.

2. Edible Coatings

Edible coatings can be applied to minimally processed jackfruit to increase its shelf life. These coatings help preserve the nutritional quality and extend the postharvest life of the fruit.

3. Controlled Atmosphere Storage

Controlled atmosphere storage involves maintaining specific levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen around the fruit to slow down the ripening process and extend its shelf life. This technique is particularly useful for bulk storage and transportation.

4. Innovative Processing Techniques

  • Vacuum-Infusion: This process enhances the firmness and shelf life of jackfruit products, making them more suitable for long-term storage and distribution.
  • Freeze-Drying: Freeze-drying jackfruit helps preserve its nutritional value while significantly extending its shelf life. This method is particularly useful for producing jackfruit powders and other value-added products.

5. Partnerships and Funding

Companies like The Jackfruit Company are raising significant funds to expand their product lines and improve processing techniques. For instance, The Jackfruit Company recently raised $5 million in a Series B extension to enhance its jackfruit-based meat alternatives across retail, foodservice, and industrial ingredients.

6. Market Expansion and Innovation

  • Dried Jackfruit Products: Companies are developing dried jackfruit products to cater to a global audience. This not only extends the shelf life but also provides a convenient and nutritious option for consumers.
  • Blended Products: Innovations like the Beef & Jackfruit Burger by Performance Food Group combine jackfruit with traditional meat to create products that offer nutritional benefits (e.g., lower saturated fat and cholesterol) while maintaining familiar taste profiles.

7. Sustainable Practices

Jackfruit farming itself is a sustainable practice due to the tree's low maintenance requirements and high yield. This makes it an attractive option for farmers and contributes to its market appeal as a sustainable food source.
By employing these strategies, companies are effectively addressing the challenge of jackfruit's short shelf life, thereby improving its market reach and making it a more viable option for consumers worldwide.