In the fast-moving global sustainable food arena, Singapore based, Eat Karana is emerging as a real game-changer by highlighting the role of jackfruit in supporting biodiversity at the same time reshaping consumer perceptions about this versatile fruit. This startup is on a mission to transform the global food system by introducing minimally processed, whole-plant-based meat alternatives made from jackfruit, a crop not only nutritious but also 100% 'Earth Friendly'.
Jackfruit, often underutilised and wasted, is gaining newfound respect thanks to Eat Karana's innovative approach. This tropical fruit is an efficient crop with high yields and low water requirements, making it a sustainable choice for smallholder farmers, particularly in regions like Sri Lanka, where 60% of jackfruit is typically wasted. By sourcing jackfruit directly from these farmers, Karana is reducing food waste and boosting local economies.
Source: Eat Karana - Jackfruit
Dan Riegler, Co-Founder of Eat Karana, cannot overstate the importance of this partnership: "All our jackfruit is sourced from Sri Lanka. We work with a network of smallholder farmers who practice traditional agroforestry models. These models are diverse in the types of crops, plants, and trees they support, as well as the wild natural systems they are integrated into."
Jackfruit is typically grown using intercropping methods, which means it thrives alongside other crops, promoting biodiversity. This approach contrasts with the monoculture practices prevalent in industrial farming, helping to restore balance and health to agricultural ecosystems.
Through their jackfruit-based products, such as plant-based 'pork' alternatives, Eat Karana is also changing the way consumers think about meat substitutes. Their products offer a meaty texture and flavour, made possible by innovative processing techniques which maintain the integrity of the whole plant. This positions jackfruit as not just a substitute for meat but as a delicious and versatile ingredient in its own right.
Source: Eat Karana - Jackfruit dishes
Looking ahead, Riegler sees an even larger role for jackfruit in the global food system. "Jackfruit is an extremely versatile crop for its texture properties as a meat analogue and can be used in many different forms. As a climate-resilient crop that boosts food security, sequesters carbon, supports biodiverse farming systems, and provides high yields with minimal inputs and resources, it is exactly the kind of crop we should and will be growing and consuming more of in a warming and changing planet and food system."
By focusing on both environmental sustainability and culinary innovation, Eat Karana is not just creating food products but is also fostering a deeper connection between consumers and the planet. Their efforts are reshaping perceptions about jackfruit, turning it from an overlooked fruit into a superhero of sustainable eating. Additionally, through their product innovation platform, Karana is expanding its presence with 10 SKUs currently in markets across Asia and the US, continuously adding new products through foodservice and other channels.
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