Selim Mia; Dbarta24 – In a creative effort to reduce agricultural waste and add value to Bangladesh’s national fruit, an entrepreneur in Gazipur has successfully begun producing biscuits made from real jackfruit pulp.
The initiative, spearheaded by Abdus Sattar in Sreepur, transforms seasonally surplus jackfruits into a commercial baked good that is already gaining traction among local consumers and online buyers.
From Inspiration in China to Production in Sreepur
The idea originated during Sattar’s visit to China last year, where he observed a wide variety of processed food products derived from jackfruit.
Driven by the sight of large quantities of unharvested jackfruits going to waste every season in Gazipur, he resolved to adapt similar food processing methods back home.
“I saw how jackfruit was being processed into various food items in China, and that inspired me,” Sattar said. “Upon returning to Bangladesh, I began thinking of ways to utilize our local jackfruit, which often goes to waste due to lack of preservation.”
Production began on an experimental basis at the Mohtahina Food factory, located in Bairagir Chala village within the Sreepur Municipal area. During the current season, approximately 500 jackfruits were processed into biscuits.
Quality, Composition, and Commercial Reach
Each biscuit incorporates approximately 20 percent fresh jackfruit pulp, preserving the fruit’s natural flavor and aroma without relying heavily on artificial additives.
“Each biscuit contains around 20 percent jackfruit pulp, which maintains the fruit’s natural taste and fragrance, setting it apart from traditional biscuits,” explained Sattar. Currently, an 800-gram pack of jackfruit biscuits sells for BDT 750.
Building on the initial response, Sattar plans to expand his lineup in the coming seasons to include additional value-added jackfruit products.
Agriculture Office Promises Support
Local agricultural authorities have welcomed the initiative as a step forward for the agro-processing sector.
“Such initiatives are extremely positive for promoting the multi-purpose use of jackfruits,” said Sumaiya Sultana, Sreepur Upazila Agriculture Officer.
“Currently, around 52 different food products are being made from jackfruit in Bangladesh, many of which are exported abroad. We welcome entrepreneur Abdus Sattar’s efforts, and the Agriculture Extension Department will provide all necessary technical support if needed.”
By turning seasonal surpluses into shelf-stable snacks, small-scale ventures like Mohtahina Food offer a practical blueprint for mitigating post-harvest losses and expanding income opportunities for local fruit growers.