Pandalam (Pathanamthitta): Jackfruit, the official fruit of both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, is making its way overseas, even on chartered flights. European and Gulf countries are among the major consumers of Kerala's jackfruit, with the Varikka variety remaining the preferred choice.

On average, between 500 kg and one tonne of jackfruit is flown out of Kerala daily during festive seasons in these countries. Chartered flights are mainly used to transport jackfruit to Gulf nations during festival periods. The fruit is primarily exported to 11 countries. Although jackfruit from other countries also reaches European and Gulf markets, Kerala's jackfruit continues to be in high demand. It fetches between Rs 500 and Rs 600 per kg abroad, compared with around Rs 10 per kg locally.

R. Ashok, who supplies jackfruit for export and is one of the organisers of the 'Chakkakkoottam' collective, said exports have declined over the past few months after cargo charges doubled because of the war. Ashok also transports unripe jackfruit, preferred for vegan food (by those who do not consume milk, butter or even honey), to northern Indian states by train.

Jackfruit exports are seasonal. Kerala's produce is exported mainly from February to April during the summer season. From May to July, when the monsoon begins in Kerala, exporters depend on Tamil Nadu for supplies. Although climate change has significantly affected jackfruit production in Kerala, exports have not been disrupted as hybrid jackfruit trees are widely cultivated in both Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Kolli Hills' flavourful jackfruit

Kolli Hills, located at an altitude of 1,300 metres above sea level in the Namakkal district of Tamil Nadu, is one of the state's main jackfruit-growing regions. The harvest season there runs mainly from June to August.

Ripe jackfruits are carefully lowered from the sprawling, tall trees without allowing them to touch the ground. Buyers can purchase them directly or through middlemen. Jackfruit from Kolli Hills is known for its large bulbs, sweetness and distinctive aroma.