Abstract:
Jamun or Indian blackberry (Syzygium cumini L.) is a minor and underutilized tree fruit of the subcontinent. The fruit contains essential bioactive compounds like tannins, flavonoids, phenolics constituents and a rich source of iron and anthocyanins. The pulp of Jamun fruit is highly nutritive and having important minerals such as sodium, potassium, iron, zinc. The lack of postharvest management practices resulting in huge losses in fruits. Especially Jamun, being a tropical fruit, have short shelf life and deteriorates at a faster rate in hot and humid climate conditions. The quality of Jamun fruit is greatly declined between its harvesting and consumption. About 75-90% moisture is present in most fruits and vegetables, thus have a soft texture and is more perishable. The post-harvest loss of many fresh fruits and vegetables is estimated to be 30-40%. To minimize or prevent such losses, processing of fruits into shelf-life stable value-added food products is recommended. The concept of on farm value addition is to reduce fruit wastage and postharvest losses by increasing profitability through processing and preservation. Jamun fruit-based value added products like nectar, squash, fruit leather jam and drink also have potential demand with local fruit processors and as well as in retail market. The concept of on-farm value addition of Jamun fruit can lessen the burden on our economy by increase in exports, improvement in input-use efficiency and reduction in post-harvest losses. Moreover, employment generation, health improvement, better food quality and awareness about modern trends can help in improving the social structure of rural areas. The challenges that can hinder the concept of on farm value addition includes lack of on-farm training, awareness, and technology and ignoring the marketable potential of Jamun fruit.
Page(s):
101-101
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Abstract Book on International Conference on Life Sciences (ICLS-23) 11-12 May 22-23, Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023