RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Rice has long been Indonesia's staple food, but it is not the only source of carbohydrates available. One local alternative is breadfruit, or what we call sukun, a tropical fruit that grows widely across the country. Rich in carbohydrates and nutrients, breadfruit has the potential to serve as an alternative to rice.

Sukun or Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is a tropical tree that has been cultivated in Indonesia for generations. The tree has large leaves, while its fruit is round to oval in shape with green, bumpy skin. When ripe, the flesh is creamy white to yellowish and has a soft texture.

In Indonesia, Sukun is best known as a snack, commonly served as fried breadfruit or crispy breadfruit chips. However, it can also be prepared as a staple food and has long been consumed in some regions as a side dish or even a substitute for rice.

According to Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), breadfruit has strong potential as an alternative staple food to rice. Besides being rich in carbohydrates, it also contains a variety of nutrients that can help meet daily nutritional needs while supporting the country's efforts to diversify its food sources.

Sukun is not only a source of energy but also offers several health benefits. Quoted from IPB Digitani’s official website, the fruit contains potassium, which helps support heart health by improving blood circulation, regulating heart rhythm, and maintaining healthy blood pressure. Its high fiber content also promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation.

Sukun may also help prevent and manage diabetes. Its fiber and protein content can help maintain healthy blood sugar levels, while breadfruit flour has shown potential in helping control blood sugar in people with diabetes. In addition, sukun contains iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants that help protect brain cells and support cognitive function.

The fruit is also rich in vitamins A and C, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium. These nutrients may support reproductive health, help protect the body against cancer, promote healthy skin, assist with weight management, and strengthen bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

In Indonesia, Sukun can be prepared in many different ways. Besides being fried or made into chips, it is commonly steamed, boiled, cooked in sweet desserts, or processed into flour for making bread, noodles, biscuits, and cakes. These various preparations make breadfruit an easy and versatile alternative source of carbohydrates.

With its high carbohydrate content, rich nutritional value, and wide range of health benefits, breadfruit is considered one of Indonesia's promising local food resources. As an alternative to rice, it not only provides more dietary choices but also supports food diversification and encourages greater use of the country's abundant local crops.