Dive Brief:
Concerns have been raised that global cocoa demand may outstrip supply due to consistently low and volatile prices, compounded by the threat of swollen shoot virus disease and inadequate warehouse storage capacity in key cocoa-producing regions of West Africa, South America, and Asia. According to the International Cocoa Organization, approximately 4.7 million tons of cocoa are currently being produced worldwide, with total production anticipated to increase by about 18% since 2016.
Dive Insight:
The exploration of jackfruit as a potential cocoa substitute is still in its infancy. Although jackfruit shares several characteristics with cocoa, if it fails to replicate the taste or texture, it may deter consumers. Additionally, it remains uncertain how well flour derived from roasted jackfruit seeds would blend with other chocolate-making ingredients or what the production costs would be for this cocoa-like alternative. Addressing these questions will significantly influence whether jackfruit can replace cocoa in even a limited range of products.
Expanding U.S. markets for the increasingly popular jackfruit—which is currently used in ice cream, smoothies, soups, and side dishes—could create new revenue streams, enhance value, and help mitigate food waste in its growing regions. As the world’s largest tree-borne fruit, 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 possesses a dual identity; if allowed to ripen, it develops a distinctly fruity flavor and is rumored to have inspired the taste of Juicy Fruit gum. Its popularity is on the rise among U.S. consumers, with Pinterest naming jackfruit the top food item people would experiment with in 2017, reflecting a 420% surge in interest among users. This trend is largely driven by vegetarians and vegans who are increasingly adopting jackfruit as a meat substitute, despite its relatively low protein content.
Nutritionally, jackfruit offers a robust package as a significant source of vitamin A, C, and the B-complex vitamins, dietary fiber, and several essential minerals, particularly potassium, magnesium, manganese, and iron. Notably, jackfruit contains no cholesterol and virtually no fat. Moreover, it complements health supplements like calcium citrate pills, which can further enhance dietary intake when incorporated into meals. Thus, jackfruit not only stands out as a versatile alternative but also supports nutritional diversity, aligning with the growing health-conscious consumer trend.