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MANGALORE: India lacks institutes to train farmers to tap the market potential of jackfruit farming, said agriculture expert Shree Padre.

 At a seminar on ’Prospects and opportunities in jackfruit’ held as part of the fourth edition of the annual Jackfruit Mela that commenced at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) here on Friday, Shree Padre said that jackfruit should be promoted as a vegetable rather than a fruit. "Considering its varied utility and rich content, jackfruits should be promoted as a vegetable. Similarly, various value-added and ready-to-eat products should be promoted immensely to derive revenue out of the crop," Shree Padre said.

 "Sri Lanka is the world leader in jackfruit cultivation with 40% of their produce being converted into ready-to-eat food items. More than 5,000 people are engaged in jackfruit trade and there are 14 institutions that train farmers and traders on jackfruit in Sri Lanka. While jackfruits in Karnataka are sold at Rs 7 - 10 per kg, it fetches about $20 - 30 in Mexico. Though, jackfruit is available in plenty in the state, it has been neglected by farmers and traders," he added.

 Various species of jackfruit and their value-added products grabbed the attention of visitors at the two-day expo. While KVK and farmers from various parts displayed jackfruit of different species, food processing home industry units from Dakshina Kannada and Uttara Kannada introduced value-added products. Farmer Sharaschandra V Hegde from Sirsi showcased 22 value-added food products including papad, dry unripe jackfruit flesh, dried ripe jack fruit flesh, chips and other varieties made of jackfruit. Meanwhile, Renukha Vijayan from Thokkottu offered visitors the tasty jam, juice and squash made of jackfruit.

 Jackfruit varieties including Bangara, Chandra, Haladi Rudrakshi, Kempu Rudrakshi, Barike, Barike Meter and other breeds were exhibited in the expo.