TASK 36 COMMODITIES "DURIAN"

Durian

Durian fruit is one of the popular tropical fruits known for its one of a kind fragrance and flavor. Durian is widely recognized as the "King of Fruits" in many South-East Asian countries.
The durian tree is tropical in origin and belongs to the family of Malvaceae, in the genus, Durio; a large family of plant species which also include some of the interesting relatives such as okra, cocoa beans, hibiscus, and cotton. It is botanically known as Durio zibethinus.

The exotic durian is native to Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysian rainforests. While there are 30 known species of Durioexist, only 9 of them have been identified for producing edible fruits. Durian tree starts bearing fruits after four or five years after plantation. The tree can grow up to 50 meters in height depending on the species.

Durian is a seasonal fruit; its season lasts typically from June until August which coincides with that of the other tropical specific fruits like mangosteen, jackfruit, and mango.
Durian fruit is distinctive for its large size, unique odor, and formidable thorn-covered husk. It can reach up to 30 cm (12 in) long and 15 cm (6 in) in diameter, and typically weighs one to four kilograms (two to seven lb). In shape, it varies from round to oblong; the color of its husk (rind) is green with brown, and its flesh features creamy-yellow to saffron color bulbs depending upon the species.

The flesh or pulp of durian can be consumed at various stages of ripeness and is used as flavoring agent in a wide variety of culinary and sweet preparations in Southeast Asian cuisines. Durian seeds are small, round to oval shape kernels and appear like that of jackfruit seeds. Although boiled seeds can be eaten safely, many discard them. The seeds feature a bland taste akin to jackfruit seeds.

Here is the nutrient content in a cup (243 grams) of pulp (1) Durian:
Calories: 357.
Fat: 13 grams.
Carbs: 66 grams.
Fiber: 9 grams.
Protein: 4 grams.
Vitamin C: 80% of the RDI.
Thiamine: 61% of the RDI.
Manganese: 39% of the RDI.
Vitamin B6: 38% of the RDI.
Potassium: 30% of the RDI.
Riboflavin: 29% of the RDI.
Copper: 25% of the RDI.
Folate: 22% of the RDI.
Magnesium: 18% of the RDI.
Niacin: 13% of the RDI.
This nutrient profile is actually very impressive compared to other fruits. It makes durian one of the most nutritious fruits on earth.
Selection and Storage
Durian fruit is native to Southeast Asia. It is sold in markets all over the East-Asian world and also imported into the United States and Europe. People have differences in preferences regarding ripeness, while some like slightly ripen, tart flavored durians, others may prefer to cherish soft, and over-ripened. Usually, ripe fruit that falls off the tree is gathered and sold at markets.

In the stores, choose a durian fruit with firm stalk. Outside its natural habitat, durian is one of the expensive fruits; some of its varieties like D24 (Sultan) are in high demand and therefore, may command a higher price. The fruit can also be stored inside the refrigerator for few days.

Source : http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/durian-fruit.html http://www.healthline.com/nutrition/durian-fruit#section4