Once dismissed as a 'poor man's fruit,' jackfruit is witnessing a dramatic rise in popularity and prices across Karnataka this summer, with growing demand from urban consumers pushing rates sharply upward.
In Bengaluru markets, traders have increasingly shifted from selling whole fruits to pricing jackfruit by the kilogram. A fruit that earlier sold for ₹100 to ₹200 is now fetching ₹40 to ₹80 per kg, depending on quality, colour and variety.
An average 4 to 5 kg fruit is now priced around ₹400 to ₹500, while larger 10 to 12 kg premium varieties are selling for ₹600 to ₹700, according to traders.
Experts say awareness of jackfruit's health benefits and the rise of ready-to-eat products have transformed consumer perception.
K Narayana Gowda said urban buyers earlier avoided jackfruit because cutting and extracting bulbs was difficult.
However, ready-to-eat bulbs promoted through jackfruit melas and its reputation as a low glycaemic fruit have boosted demand.
In coastal Karnataka, jackfruit is widely used for chips, flour, sweets, papad, ice cream and various dishes, expanding its appeal beyond fresh consumption.
This has helped the fruit gain strong commercial value across regions.
Scientists and horticulture experts say varieties such as Siddu jackfruit, Lalbagh Madhura, Shankara, Rudrakshi, Swarna and Tubugere are drawing higher returns for farmers.
Some growers are reportedly earning significant income from individual trees.
Officials say rising demand, shrinking tree cover and perishability have also contributed to higher prices. Karnataka has developed cold storage capacity to support fruit preservation and supply chains.
What was once neglected is now becoming one of Karnataka's most sought-after seasonal fruits.