Jamun (Syzygium cumini): An underutilized potential fruit crop in Asia

Abstract

Jamun [Syzygium cumini (L.)] is a tropical evergreen tree and its scrumptious fruit is consumed as fresh and processed. It is famous for its delicious taste and aroma, use for medicinal purposes. It is a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, phenolic contents, minerals, and edible oils that are helpful for consumers’ health. There is negligible information about cultivars due to the lack of genetic analysis of available clones. The tree can withstand water scarcity, the fruit is highly perishable with a limited shelf life of 3 days under ambient conditions and its marketing is confined to the local markets. Cold storage has been used to enhance its marketing window after pre-treatments by anti-ripening chemicals, edible coating, and non-chemical processing. In addition, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has also been found effective to increase its shelf life by 30 days. Nevertheless, limited research has been conducted to increase its postharvest life. This review includes preharvest factors affecting postharvest physiology, biochemical changes during fruit ripening, harvest maturity and postharvest techniques to extend shelf life and postharvest storability. This article provides the way forward for further R&D work concerning shelf-life extension and strengthens the Jamun industry with sustainable solutions for better returns to stakeholders.