The ubiquitous jackfruit has, it seems, never been given its due. In a bid to change its fortunes, the Kerala Industries and Commerce Department is taking efforts to give a commercial twist to the jackfruit by promoting it in the markets outside Kerala.

Jackfruit Pro 2016 – a three-day event will be organised by the department at VMG Hall, Athani near Nedumbassery from February 4 to 6. The function will be held on the sidelines of the Kochi B2B meet meant for small and medium enterprises at CIAL Trade Fair & Exhibition Centre.

P.M. Francis, Director of Industries and Commerce, told Business Line that the objective of the three-day function is to find markets for the jackfruit and its value-added products outside Kerala especially in malls and supermarkets.

It is estimated that the jackfruit trading business in the country is worth ₹18,000 crore annually. However, in Kerala, 97 per cent of the fruit is lost due to lack of processing and organised marketing. The recent consumer shift towards healthy food habits has given scope for promoting native cuisine made out of local agri-farm products.

Thus, the neglected jackfruit, which has ample nutrient content and dietary fibre, can find its way as a prominent food item on the menu. It can be used as an ingredient for traditional dishes, fried or dried chips.

The objective of the event, he said, is to bring commercial producers of jackfruit value-added products in the State and potential buyers for a business linkage. Besides the B2B meet, he said a technology clinic and cookery competition will also be arranged, apart from technical sessions by experts from various research institutions.

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