exotic · Moraceae

Cempedak

Artocarpus integer

Energy
69kcal
Native
Top Producer
CHN
Cempedak - Chempedak (chlebowiec chempedak Artocarpus integer). Ilustracja podręcznika Owoce.

Photo: Agnieszka Kwiecień (Nova). · CC BY-SA 3.0

Origin & History

Where it comes from

Artocarpus integer, commonly known as chempedak or cempedak, is a species of tree in the family Moraceae, in the same genus as breadfruit and jackfruit. It is native to Southeast Asia. Cempedak is an important crop in Malaysia and is also popularly cultivated in southern Thailand and parts of Indonesia, and has the potential to be utilized in other areas. It is currently limited in range to Southeast Asia, with some trees in Australia and Hawaii.

World Production

Where it grows

23.9M
Tonnes · 2024

Note · FAO 'Other tropical fruits'

1
China, mainland16.04%
2
Thailand13.68%
3
Philippines13.50%
4
Brazil10.36%
5
Indonesia9.60%

Source: FAO STAT — Crops and Livestock Products, 2024

Notable facts

Things worth knowing

  1. 01

    Cempedak, scientifically known as Artocarpus integer, belongs to the Moraceae family, sharing its genus with familiar fruits like breadfruit and jackfruit.

  2. 02

    While its exact native region remains unknown, cempedak is a significant crop cultivated across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia.

  3. 03

    China is currently the top producer of cempedak, contributing to a substantial global production of 23.9 million tonnes annually.

  4. 04

    This exotic fruit offers a notable amount of dietary fiber, with 100 grams providing 5.30 grams of this essential nutrient.

  5. 05

    Cempedak is a good source of Vitamin C, with a 100-gram serving containing 54.1 milligrams, which is important for immune function.

Properties

Health & nutrition

  • Cempedak is a source of dietary fiber, which may support digestive health and contribute to a feeling of fullness.
  • This fruit provides Vitamin C, an antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage.
  • It contains potassium, a mineral that may play a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
  • The fruit's carbohydrate content offers a source of energy for the body.
  • Cempedak contains various phytonutrients that may contribute to overall well-being.

Informational only · not medical advice

In the kitchen

Culinary uses

Cempedak is a popular fruit in Southeast Asia, where it is often eaten fresh. Its sweet, custard-like flesh can be enjoyed raw or used in desserts and pastries. In some regions, the fruit is also fried, adding a crispy texture to its unique flavor profile.

Plates

Specimen photographs

Cempedak - Cempedak is a close relative of the jackfruit.
Mokkie · CC BY-SA 3.0source
Cempedak - Pohon Cempedak
Budi A.Y · CC BY-SA 4.0source