What is the white mucus of jackfruit

The white mucus of jackfruit is a natural latex substance in the skin and pulp of jackfruit, which is mainly composed of resin, gum and polysaccharide.

1. Plant defense mechanism

jackfruit white mucus is a secretion produced by plant self-protection, used to prevent insect pests and microbial invasion. This mucus has a high content in immature fruits and gradually decreases as the fruit matures. Contact with mucus may cause slight skin irritation, it is recommended to wear gloves when handling.

2. Natural resin components

Mucus contains a large amount of natural resin components, including terpenes and phenolic substances. These ingredients give mucus viscous properties and have been used as adhesives in traditional medicine. Modern research has found that these components may have certain antibacterial effects.

3. Food safety

The white mucus of mature jackfruit is non-toxic and edible, but the taste is sticky and affects appetite. Mucus will oxidize and turn black when exposed to air. It is recommended to apply cooking oil to knives to reduce mucus secretion. People who are allergic to latex may experience allergic reactions and should avoid contact.

4. Removal Method

When processing fresh jackfruit, you can first use edible oil to coat the hands and the surface of the knife. After cutting the fruit in half, soaking it in salt water or rinsing it with running water can effectively remove residual mucus. The mucus secretion of jackfruit after cold storage will be significantly reduced.

5. Industrial application Value

The natural gum in jackfruit mucus can be used to make biological glue or environmental adhesive. Some cosmetics also extract polysaccharides from them as thickeners. Traditionally, Southeast Asia has used this adhesive to make waterproof coatings for fishing nets.

The white mucus of jackfruit is a natural secretion of plants. Although it may cause inconvenience in processing, it will not affect eating after fully mature. It is suggested to choose mature jackfruit with yellowish brown skin and slightly soft pressing, because this kind of fruit has less mucus secretion. Disposable gloves can be worn during handling, and applying edible oil to knives can effectively prevent sticking. If mucus comes into contact with the skin and causes redness, swelling, and itching, you can wash it with soapy water and apply anti allergic ointment. People who are allergic to latex should avoid direct contact with fresh jackfruit and can choose to purchase pretreated pulp. Proper consumption of jackfruit is helpful to supplement vitamin C and dietary fiber, but attention should be paid to its high sugar content, and diabetes patients should control their intake.