
What made durian fruit so expensive?
- The fruit is overhyped as the “king of fruit” and demands, especially from China has been quite high lately.
- The tree requires several years to mature, and peak production might occur only after a decade of planting for some varieties. ...
- In addition to the above, durian tree also requires expensive & intensive cares and planted in suitable soil. ...
Where can I buy a durian fruit?
Well, the answer is pretty easy; if your town has an Asian supermarket or an Asian neighborhood like Chinatown or Little Saigon, you’ll find it there. It may be in the freezer section, however. Most markets freeze durian because it helps preserve their shelf life and cut down on the strong odor.
What is so special about a fruit called durian?
- The husk of a durian is good for getting rid of the smells after eating it. ...
- You must not eat too much of durian. Not sure why and depend on the individual, it could cause headache, fever, dizziness or breathlessness. ...
- There are more than one type of durian and it taste varied from one type to another. It could be sweet, bitter,
Why does the durian fruit smell so terrible?
“So, it’s a double whammy,” says Tan. In short, durian stinks so much because a lot of its genes are focused on pumping out odors. Inspiring. The whole fruit system is optimized to produce the smell, likely to attract primates like orangutan to eat and disperse its seeds.

Which country is famous for durian?
Although the durian is not native to Thailand, Thailand is ranked the world's number one exporter of durian, producing around 700,000 tonnes of durian per year, 400,000 tonnes of which are exported to mainland China and Hong Kong. Malaysia and Indonesia follow, both producing about 265,000 tonnes each.
Where is durian fruit most common?
Southeast AsiaDespite its smell, the fruit is widely grown commercially and for subsistence across Southeast Asia, primarily in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Durian is generally large and ovular, featuring a hard green to brownish thorn-covered husk.
Can you find durian in the US?
Yet in America, we have fresh durian not too-too far away — it grows in Hawaii.
What country is durian illegal in?
SingaporeDurian bans are the real deal across many parts of the world where the fruit grows. For example, it must be disposed of or consumed before passengers enter the Singapore Metro system, unless they want to pay a $500 SGD ($380 USD) fine. A similar ban exists across Bangkok public transportation.
How healthy is durian?
The flesh of durian is highly nutritious, as it's a rich source of fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins. It's also packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds like quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin ( 2 ).
Why is durian so smelly?
Previous research had shown that the odor came from a chemical compound called ethanethiol, but it wasn't clear how the fruit was producing it. The new study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, finds that, as a durian ripens, its ethionine content increases, releasing the smell.
What does durian taste and smell like?
When picking out a durian fruit to buy, locals will first smell it, the stronger it smells, the better it will taste! And what does it really taste like? Durian lovers say it has a sweet, custardy taste, with the texture of creamy cheesecake. Flavors often attributed to the durian fruits are caramel and vanilla.
How much does a whole durian cost?
In 2022, the approximate price range for US Durian is between US$ 2.77 and US$ 2.63 per kilogram or between US$ 1.26 and US$ 1.19 per pound(lb).
Is durian a jackfruit?
Durian and jackfruit are two entirely different fruits. Durian is higher in fiber and has a lower glycemic index. At the same time, jackfruit is low in calories, fats, and carbs. In mineral content, durian wins with high contents of copper and zinc.
Why is durian expensive?
Once the trees start to flower, farmers count the days until the fruits are ripe. Depending on the breed, this can span 90 to 150 days. But it's not only the time and labor that make Nont durian so pricey. The costs to provide this kind of care add up.
What is durian called in English?
durian, (Durio zibethinus), tree of the hibiscus, or mallow, family (Malvaceae) and its large edible fruit. The durian is cultivated in Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and southern Thailand and is seldom exported.
Why do people eat durian?
Naturally rich in iron, vitamin C, and potassium, durian improves muscle strength, skin health and even lowers blood pressure. Furthermore, one small durian contains 23g of dietary fiber which is nearly all of your daily nutritional requirement.
What is Malaysia national fruit?
PapayaPapaya (from Malay: pepaya) is the national fruit of Malaysia. It is available all year round. Mango is the national fruit of Philippines.
Why is durian famous in Davao?
Davao's rich fertile volcanic soil and climate make it most suitable for sustained production of the freshest and tastiest Durian.
What climate does durian grow in?
equatorial tropicsDurian trees are native to the equatorial tropics, the 23 degrees north or south of the equator. It is hot there. Really hot. The average temperatures are 24-30 degrees C (75- 86 F) , and it never, ever, even in a freak year, freezes.
Where is durian from in Philippines?
Durian trees grow almost exclusive in Mindanao, particularly in Davao, Cotabato, Sulu and Agusan. In fact, Southern Mindanao is considered as the 'durian republic' in the Philippines.
What is a durian fruit?
What is durian fruit? Durian is a tropical fruit distinguished by its large size and spiky, hard outer shell. It has a smelly, custard-like flesh with large seeds. There are several varieties, but the most common one is Durio zibethinus. The fruit’s flesh can range in color.
Where is durian popular?
It’s popular in Southeast Asia, where it’s nicknamed “the king of fruits.” Durian is very high in nutrients, containing more than most other fruits.
How big does a durian grow?
The fruit can grow up to 1 foot (30 cm) long and 6 inches (15 cm) wide. A typical durian fruit has about 2 cups (486 grams) of edible pulp. Durian is a tropical fruit that grows in countries in Southeast Asia. It has a spiky outer shell and a smelly flesh that can vary in color.
What is the most nutritious fruit?
Magnesium: 18% of the DV. Niacin: 13% of the DV. This nutrient profile makes durian one of the most nutritious fruits worldwide. It’s also rich in healthy plant compounds, including anthocyanins, carotenoids, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Many of these function as antioxidants ( 2.
How to open a durian?
You need to cut the shell with a knife and pry it open with your hands before gently removing the durian flesh. You can then eat it fresh on its own, paired with sticky rice, or as an ingredient in various dishes.
What is the durian plant used for?
All parts of the durian plant — leaves, husk, roots, and fruit — have been used in traditional Malaysian medicine to treat various illnesses, including high fever, jaundice, and skin conditions ( 2#N#Trusted Source#N#).
How many compounds are in durian?
A study on the aromatic compounds in durian found 44 active compounds, including some that contribute to scents of skunk, caramel, rotten egg, fruit, and soup seasoning ( 4 ).
Where is durian grown?
Loved by some and hated by others, this tropical fruit can be served raw or cooked. Durian is primarily harvested in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, but the unusual fruit has become popular throughout Asia and can be found in Asian markets in the United States.
What Is Durian?
Durian, nicknamed the "king of fruits," is a large, spiky, greenish-brown fruit that is well-loved in its native Southeast Asia. The fruit is known for its strong odor when ripe, which can vary depending on the variety of durian. Many people find the odor off-putting, and the fresh fruit has even been banned from some public places and mass transit. Durians often crack open when ripe, making extracting the edible flesh inside relatively easy (while also distributing that famous aroma). A large knife or cleaver is otherwise used, and the white, yellow, or red flesh—beloved by many for its custardy texture and unique flavor—can be eaten raw or cooked. Durian's short season and limited shelf-life, as well as rising demand, means the fruit is relatively expensive, particularly when imported.
How long does durian last in the fridge?
Cooked durian will last a few days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
How to cook durian?
How to Cook With Durian. Measuring the ripeness of a durian and deciding when to prepare it is a matter of taste. Some like to eat slightly unripe durian before the fruit emits its strong odor and the flesh is still crisp. Many enjoy ripe durian when the odor is strong, but before the fruit becomes over-ripe. ...
What does durian smell like?
Durian's odor has been described as resembling dirty gym socks, rotten egg, cut onions, manure, and roadkill. Some describe the flesh as tasting similar, but fans of the fruit describe it as having notes of almond and with a custard-like texture. When ripe, the flesh is uniquely tender and creamy.
How long can durian be frozen?
Durian can also be frozen in a zip-top bag with the air removed for up to three months.
How to get spiky skin off fruit?
Take care when handling the fruit, since its spiky skin can poke you. As you cut, pull back the skin with your other hand . Use your hands to pull back the skin—it will come off fairly easily. Lay the two halves down on the cutting board, then using a spoon or your hands, remove the large "pods" of fruit.
Where is durian native to?
Durian is a native fruit of Southeast Asia. Its range appears to be the Malay Peninsula, Indonesia, and the island of Borneo (Subhadrabandhu et al., 1991 ). The durian is a tropical fruit tree in the order Malvales, family Bombacaceae. There are 51 genera within this family. The genus Durio has approximately 28 species. The most common and economically valuable species is Durio zibethinus Murr. ( Reksodihardjo, 1962 ). The common name “durian” is derived from the Malay word “duri” meaning thorn. The species name “ zibethinus ” is derived from the Italian word ‘zibetto’ meaning strong aroma.
Where did durian originate?
Historically, the earliest European reference of durian has been firstly reported by Niccolò Da Conti, who traveled to southeastern Asia during the 15th century. Until the turn of the 16th century, durian was introduced by the Portuguese into Ceylon, Sri Lanka, while the first seedlings were sent from the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, to Auguste Saint-Arroman of Dominica in 1884. The modern chemical age of durian was unfolded by a British botanist, E.J.H. Corner in 1949 with the detonation of seed dispersal practice, and the commercial cultivation in southeastern Asia towards the middle of the 20th century [1,4,5]. Since then, durian’s use has been vigorously widened and entrenched into a multidisciplinary of food (milkshakes, candles, jams, rolls, tarts, pies and ice cream flavoring) processing industries [6].
What is durian paste?
Durian paste is the most widely made processed durian across South-East Asia. This product is made from fully ripe durian aril, mixed with sugar and coconut milk or with sugar alone, stirred over a low heat until thickened. The product can be stored for a long time in a sealed metal container. For retail packages it is often packed in clear plastic tubes (Plate IX F). It may be consumed directly as dessert or used as a stuffing in Chinese moon cake ( Maneepun et al., 1994; Paweenakarn et al., 1992 ).
What is the King of Fruit?
The durian, “King of fruit” is one of the most controversial tropical fruit. Vivid and delightful descriptions of the strong aroma, both enthusiasts and opponents add a mystery to the fruit in the western world. This review paper focuses the current knowledge about the Durio zibethinus species and its applications and usage in the nowadays industries and highlighting the extracted essential oils that is important for human health. Researches have shown that there is an increasing commercial demand for durian fruits due to their wide applicability in medical fields, food industry, and in building houses. Therefore, studies are needed to fully exploit this species. The oil extracted from this tree has shown to be of a good usage to the human health. Investigations reviewed in this paper show that oleic and palmitic acids were the main components in all parts of fruits from the spring harvest as well as in the arillus and seed of fruits from the summer harvest. In addition, palmitoleic, stearic, linoleic, and linolenic acids were present in higher concentrations.
What is the germination of Durio zibethinus?
Seeds of Durio zibethinus planted in soil with the micropyle end pointed up exhibited hypogeal germination, and those with the micropyle pointed down had epigeal-like germination (Singh and Rao, 1963).
What is the aroma of durian?
Aroma, a complex mixture of volatile compounds, plays a critical role in the perception and acceptability of fruits and vegetables. For example, durian, a kind of tropic fruit, has a unique sweet taste and strong stinky aroma. The special aroma of durian makes this fruit favored only by limited consumers. The volatiles profiles of durians have been investigated. In the study of aroma, GC analysis is the most frequently used. Li et al. [62] detected 46 odor-active compounds from Thai durian “Monthong” using aroma extract dilution analysis and GC-olfactometry. Among them, 24 were never reported to be found in durian before. The authors conducted further research, which disclosed that durian pulp overall odor can be mimicked by only two compounds: ethyl (2 S )-2-methylbutanoate and 1- (ethylsulfanyl) ethanethiol [63]. To get new opportunities for a wider durian marketplace, plant breeders are currently attempting to develop new cultivars of durian that have milder aromas and flesh with no seeds but a sweet taste and attractive color. Studies on characterization and identification of volatiles are important for new cultivar development. Belgis et al. [64] analyzed volatiles of six lai and four durian cultivars grown in Indonesia using SPME/GC-MS. According to their results, lai cultivars have less diverse sulfurs and esters as compared to durian, which were most probably the key reason for the different aroma characteristics of lai and durian. Lai was characterized by a less intense sulfury, fruity, and sweet aroma since it contained fewer sulfur and ester compounds than durian. Lower sulfur in lai cultivar increases its potency to be induced into new durian cultivar expansions.
How long does it take for durian to ripen?
In Thailand, the optimum ripe stage of durian is usually 3–7 days after harvest, depending on the varieties ( Charoenkiatkul, Thiyajai, & Judprasong, 2016 ). After cleaning, durian husk is carefully cut along the rind by knife. Durian pods, usually firm textured and creamy colored, are removed. Selected pods of similar size (~ 300–350 g) are placed in a plastic box with lid or on a Styrofoam tray and wrapped with cling wrap. Fresh-cut durian is stored at ambient temperature or refrigerated conditions (0–4°C) ( Voon et al., 2006) ( Fig. 7 ).
Where is durian found?
Durian is one of the largest tropical fruits most commonly found in Southeast Asia countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines. Durian is easily recognized by its shape; a remarkably foul odour and its thorn-covered rind.
What is durian fruit?
The word durian generally refers to the whole fruit but it can also mean just the durian flesh that we eat, and also to the tree. The name of durian in other languages sounds very close too. For example, it is called Liu lian (榴莲) in Chinese, Thurian/Thureyn(ทุเรียน)in Thai and Dorian (ドリアン) in Japanese.
Why is durian considered the king of fruits?
You might be wondering, why among all fruits is durian being honored the title ‘The King of Fruits’? Firstly, Durian is recognized by most as the King Of Fruits because of the unique spikes that enclosed its soft and edible flesh, reminiscent of a king crown. Secondly, durian is a fruit with an extremely unique taste and appearance that leaves a deep impression on almost everyone who had tasted or seen it. There is no virtually other fruit you can compare it with in terms of its unique shape, smell or taste!
How big is a durian?
The fruit can grow as large as 30 centimeters (12 in) long and 15 centimeters (6 . Durian is one of the largest tropical fruits most commonly found in Southeast Asia countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Philippines.
What is the scientific name for durian?
Other than the commonly known 'Durian', this distinctive fruit also has a scientific name called 'Durio Zibethinus' . Out of the 30 recognized Durio species, durian is one of nine species that are edible and also the most popular. King Of Fruits.
How long does it take for durian to grow?
Durians are fruits that hail from tress which take around 4-5 years to start bearing fruits. When the fruits are ripe, they fall onto the ground, ready for harvest and consumption. The durian trees' fruits are harvested twice a year, usually in February for 2 months and in September or October for 3 months.
What Does Durian Fruit Taste Like?
The fruit’s flavor seems to be indescribable. In 1856, British naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace wrote that durian tasted like “a rich custard highly flavored with almonds,” but “there are occasional wafts of flavor that call to mind cream-cheese, onion-sauce, sherry-wine, and other incongruous dishes.” Yum?
What is the healthiest durian fruit?
Known in some places as the “ king of fruits ,” the large, thorny durian ranges in color from pale yellow to red. The health benefits of durian fruit are impressive—it’s naturally rich in iron, vitamin C, and potassium. When eaten in moderation, it can improve muscle strength, skin health, and lower blood pressure.
Why Does Durian Fruit Smell So Terrible?
Anthony Bourdain once said that eating the fruit will leave your breath smelling “as if you'd been French-kissing your dead grandmother."
Why does durian smell bad?
A lot of those genes (including the ones responsible for creating sulfuric compounds) are focused on pumping out odors. This is likely to attract primates to eat the fruit and then disperse its seeds. In short, you can blame durian’s disgusting smell on its own genetics.
Why are durians so stinky?
Durian fruit has been making headlines recently for a very bizarre (and very stinky) reason: Two Australian libraries have been evacuated in the last month after patrons mistook the fruit’s foul odor for a gas leak. Yeah, you read that right—this has happened two times in one month.
Do people hate durian?
Some people love it, some people hate it . The only way to find out definitely what durian tastes like is to try it yourself.
Is durian related to cacao?
The answer is kind of complicated: A 2017 study published in Nature Genetics found that the durian is actually related to the fragrant cacao (chocolate) plant. Since the two plants separated, durian has experienced a “whole genome duplication event.”.
Where is durian grown?
There’s more than one type. There are around 30 different varieties of durian. The fruit is native to Malaysia, Indonesia and Borneo however today there are durian farms in Sri Lanka, Southern India, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thai land and the southern Chi nese island Hainan. Thailand is in fact the biggest exporter of the fruit ...
Why is durian considered a vegetable?
When it is harvested early, it is almost considered a vegetable because the flesh is hard, easy to handle and bitter, rather than than sweet. People who enjoy eating durian usually prefer the fruit to be over-ripened, when the citrus and sweet flavors are much more prominent. Although the fruit becomes messier by that point with a consistency that is comparable to that of sour cream. Traditionally, durians are eaten after they have fallen to the ground on their own accord, however, durian farms often harvest the fruit earlier in order to ship them overseas.
How much fiber is in durian?
Furthermore, one small durian contains 23g of dietary fiber which is nearly all of your daily nutritional requirement. However, it is important to not eat them in excess, as in 2010 Malaysian politician Ahmad Lai Bujang was rushed to hospital complaining of breathlessness and dizziness after gorging himself on durian.
Why is durian banned?
Due to its overpowering smell, durian has been banned on many types of public transport across Thailand, Japan and Hong Kong. In Singapore, the fruit is banned across all types of public transportation and even taxis have signs to let you know they refuse to carry passengers transporting the smelly fruit.
How much does a durian weigh?
Durian fruit is generally slightly oval, about a foot wide and covered in formidable looking spikes. The fruit can weigh between two to seven pounds, and this is heavy enough that in holding it in your hands by the body of the fruit, instead of the stem, it could potentially pierce the skin.
What is the official fruit of Singapore?
Singapore’s official fruit is the durian. The Esplanade building next to Marina Bay, started as two glass domes but when the design was altered to include covering the buildings with pointed aluminum shades, the buildings took on the appearance of a durian that has been cut in half.
Is durian fruit healthy?
If you’ve never traveled to Southeast Asia, it’s possible that you have never encountered fresh durian fruit, the infamous and healthy but divisive Southeast Asian snack that is popular in the region. However, once you have tasted the stinky fruit, it is an experience you are not likely to forget.
Where is durian available?
Here in South East Asia, durian is widely available. And when in season, people go on hyper focus to seek out the best durian.
What is Durian?
An oval spiky shaped fruit found in South East Asia. Proudly named the King of Fruits and mostly known for being the stinkiest.
Why is Durian the King of Fruits?
At first sight, it clearly has a ring (crown) of thorns encircling the stem, but the nomenclature doesn’t stop there. Countries in South East Asia recognize Durian as the King of Fruits. Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore (city-state), Indonesia and Vietnam.
How much does a durian weigh?
The word durian is partly derived from the Malay term ‘duri’, meaning thorn. This fossil looking fruit can weigh between 2-8 lbs and there are over 30 different varieties (only a few are edible). The variety is divided into 2 main categories – bitter or sweet.
How many genes are in Durians?
Durians have 46,000 genes and one, in particular, regulates sulfur production that emits the rotten gas smell. The ripeness of the fruit can change the strength in the smell.
Does durian smell good?
To me, durian does not smell pleasant. The smell smacks you in the face, elicits a dry heave and maybe your pupils dilate a little. Okay, I might be exaggerating slightly, but this thorny, prehistoric-looking fruit IS THE SMELLIEST fruit in the world. I mean, hotels and mass transits ban the odoriferous fruit.
Is durian chocolate the same as custard?
BTW, durian chocolate and durian custard are completely different from eating the real thing.
What is Durian?
There are many things in life you will either love or hate. Durian, a tropical fruit native to the Southeast nations of Asia just might be one of those things. What makes this fruit so divisive is its distinct smell, not to mention its unique appearance.
What does durian taste like?
Durian’s taste is a unique mix of sweet and savory while somehow managing to be creamy. Some have described it to be a mix of whipped cream, caramel, garlic, and chives.
What is the nutritional value of durian?
Nutritional Value. Durian is considered the king of fruits due to its high delicious taste and high nutrition. In terms of vitamin content, this unique fruit contains vitamin A, vitamin C, B6 and other B-vitamins such as riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, and folic acid.
Why is durian not overripe?
Do not purchase durian if the appearance has any of the following characteristics: The durian fruit is overripe, if the stem is dark brown and wrinkled up. If there is fungus or mold on the shell, the fruit is too old and therefore overripe. If the shell is starting to split open, the fruit is past its prime.
How to tell if a fruit is ripe?
If there is no smell at all, however, the fruit is probably under ripe and needs more time. Wiggle the stem. If it comes right out, the fruit is ripe and ready to eat. When examining the stem, make sure it is fresh and contains a bright green color when the surface is scratched with your nail.
Is durian a good source of calcium?
Durian is also a rich source of minerals, containing calcium, zinc, iron, phosphorous, sodium, magnesium, and potassium. Durian is also considered to be a great source of water, protein, phytonutrients, and good fats.
Does durian help with constipation?
The soft meat of durian is rich in fiber, greatly benefiting your digestive system. Fiber adds bulk to stool and encourages its movement, cleaning out your systems and keeping things regular and preventing constipation.
