Cempedak: Tropical Fruit with Powerful Bioactive Compounds

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Cempedak (Artocarpus integer) is one of Indonesia’s distinctive tropical fruits that has long been consumed locally but remains less explored than related fruits such as jackfruit. Beyond its distinct aroma and sweet flavor, cempedak contains carotenoids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and other phytochemicals that have attracted scientific interest.

According to research published in the journal Food Chemistry, species in the Artocarpus genus contain bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and prenylated phenolics, with potential biological activities. These compounds are being investigated for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

One of the unique characteristics of cempedak is the presence of phenolic compounds distributed across various plant parts, including the fruit peel and seeds. Researchers are exploring these components as potential sources of natural ingredients for food and pharmaceutical applications.

Cempedak seeds have also gained attention because they contain starch and nutritional components. Similar to jackfruit seeds, they are being investigated as alternative food ingredients that can reduce agricultural waste and add value to tropical crops.

In the cosmetic and wellness industries, plant extracts rich in phenolic compounds are increasingly studied for their protective properties. Cempedak-derived compounds may provide opportunities for future botanical formulations, although clinical evidence remains limited.

Although cempedak is safe for regular consumption, further research is required to establish standardized extracts, effective doses, and potential health applications before therapeutic claims can be made.