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Jocote
Spondias purpurea
Jocote is a Central American tropical fruit renowned for its tart tangy flavor and juicy crisp texture. Good source of vitamin C (25% DV) supporting superior immune function and antioxidant defense. Rich in dietary fiber (1.6g) supporting digestive health and regular bowel function. Contains polyphenols and antioxidants with powerful anti-inflammatory benefits. Very low in calories (46 per 100g) ideal for weight management. Contains potassium supporting heart health and blood pressure regulation. Contains copper supporting collagen synthesis and immune function. Unique organic acids providing distinctive flavor and traditional digestive benefits. Native to Central America, jocote gaining recognition as distinctive tropical fruit supporting comprehensive wellness.
46
Calories
1.6g
Fiber
33%
Vitamin C
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Nutrition Facts
Calories
46
per 100g
Carbs
10.5g
per 100g
Protein
0.6g
per 100g
Fiber
1.6g
per 100g
Sugar
6.8g
per 100g
Fat
0.1g
per 100g
💊Vitamins
Per 100g
Vitamin C
33% DV
20 mg
Immune function, antioxidant defense, collagen synthesis, wound healing
Vitamin A
1% DV
40 IU
Eye health, immune function, skin health, vision support
Thiamine (B1)
2% DV
0.03 mg
Energy metabolism, nervous system, heart health, mental function
⚡Minerals
Per 100g
Potassium
6% DV
198 mg
Heart health, blood pressure regulation, muscle function
Copper
8% DV
0.07 mg
Collagen synthesis, iron metabolism, immune function
Manganese
2% DV
0.04 mg
Bone health, metabolism, antioxidant support
🛡️Antioxidants
Vitamin CPolyphenolsFlavonoidsOrganic acids
🌿Phytonutrients
Polyphenols - powerful antioxidant compounds with anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefitsFlavonoids - antioxidant pigments with neuroprotective and anti-cancer propertiesOrganic acids - natural compounds with digestive and flavor-enhancing propertiesCarotenoids - antioxidant compounds with eye health and immune-supporting properties
📊Glycemic Index
32
Per Serving
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
📏
Serving Size
100g fresh jocote
Calories
46kcal
Breakdown
Carbs
10.5g
Fiber
1.6g
6% DV
Sugar
6.8g
Protein
0.6g
Fat
0.1g
Vitamin C
💊
20mg
33% DV
Potassium
⚡
198mg
6% DV
Health Benefits
Good vitamin C (33% DV) supports superior immune function and antioxidant defense
Good copper (8% DV) supports collagen synthesis and immune function
Good fiber (1.6g) supports digestive health and regular bowel function
Good potassium (6% DV) supports heart health and blood pressure regulation
Rich polyphenols and flavonoids provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits
Unique organic acids provide distinctive tart flavor and traditional digestive benefits
Very low calorie (46/100g) ideal for weight management and metabolic health
Very low glycemic index (32) and load (3) ideal for blood sugar management
Good manganese (2% DV) supports bone health and metabolism
Central American tradition supporting centuries of wellness practices
Origin & Distribution
Native Region
Central America, Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras
Global Presence
MexicoGuatemalaHondurasNicaraguaEl SalvadorCosta RicaPanamaCentral America
Top Producers
MexicoGuatemalaHondurasCentral America
Historical Background
Jocote native to Central America with traditional cultivation spanning centuries by Mesoamerican peoples. Ancient use in Aztec and Mayan cultures. Central American food staple spanning generations. Traditional Central American cuisine foundation. Colonial period documentation expanding knowledge. Modern cultivation expanding within Central America and limited global regions. Scientific research validating traditional nutritional and digestive benefits. Culinary tradition continuing in Central American cuisine as distinctive tart specialty fruit.
Peak Season
Best Time to Enjoy
Peak season April-July in Northern Hemisphere
3 Varieties Available
Explore Varieties
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Purple Red
Mexico, primary variety
Color
Yellow-red flesh, deep purple exterior
Taste Profile
Tangy tart flavor with sweet undertone, crisp texture
Best For
Fresh eating, juices, regional specialty
Yellow Golden
Guatemala, regional variety
Color
Golden-yellow flesh, pale yellow exterior
Taste Profile
Balanced tart-sweet flavor, juicy and crisp
Best For
Fresh eating, beverages, Central American markets
Green Mild
Honduras, heritage variety
Color
Pale green flesh, light green exterior
Taste Profile
Milder tartness, sweeter profile
Best For
Fresh eating, jams, specialty preparations
Storage & Selection Guide
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
How to Choose the Perfect Fruit
1
Select firm jocote without soft spots or bruises
2
Choose red or yellow color indicating ripeness based on variety
3
Press gently - should be firm with slight give when ripe
4
Look for fragrant aroma indicating ripeness and quality
5
Avoid very soft specimens that are overripe
6
Check for uniform color and medium size
7
Purchase from specialty grocers or Central American markets
8
Select consistent size for even ripeness
Proper Storage Methods
Store at room temperature up to 1-2 weeks when unripe
Refrigerate for extended storage up to 2-3 weeks
Keep in produce drawer separate from other fruits
Can be frozen as juice or pulp up to 3 months
Best consumed fresh shortly after purchase
Remove pit carefully before eating or preparation
Avoid plastic wrap - allow air circulation
Use quickly for optimal flavor and nutritional content
Shelf Life Guide
Refrigerated
18-21 days in produce drawer
Average Shelf Life
21 days
Freezing Instructions
Preserve freshness for months
2-3 months
1
Jocote best consumed fresh
2
Can be frozen as juice up to 3 months
3
Can be frozen as pulp up to 3 months
4
Thaw before consuming for best quality
5
Frozen juice excellent for beverages
6
Frozen pulp maintains vitamin C content
7
Freeze in portions for convenient serving
Pro Tip
Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Culinary Journey
Discover delicious possibilities
Common Uses
Fresh fruit eating
Juice preparation
Beverage ingredient
Jam preparation
Pickle preparation
Smoothie ingredient
Traditional Central American preparation
Regional specialty
Perfect Pairings
Lime - citrus enhancementChili - spice pairingSalt - savory enhancementHoney - sweetness balanceMint - fresh complementGinger - spice warmingCoconut - tropical pairingChile peppers - spicy contrast
Popular Recipes
Fresh jocote snacking
Jocote juice
Jocote jam
Jocote pickle
Fruit beverage
Smoothie ingredient
Traditional Central American dish
Regional specialty preparation
Refreshing Beverages
Fresh jocote juice
Jocote smoothie
Tropical blended drink
Sparkling jocote water
Herbal tea flavor
Citrus beverage
Traditional water flavor
Wellness drink
Safety Information
Allergy Information:
Jocote allergies extremely rare with minimal documented cases. Tropical fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with fruit sensitivities should consult allergist. Possible cross-reactivity with other tropical fruits but rare.
Pesticide Concerns:
Jocote cultivated with varying pesticide practices in Central America. Organic jocote available from certified producers. Conventional fruit acceptable with water rinsing. Central American suppliers often emphasizing traditional and sustainable cultivation practices.
Who Should Avoid:
- • Individuals with documented tropical fruit allergies - though jocote reactions very rare
- • Those with fruit family allergies - possible cross-reactivity though unlikely
- • Individuals with acid-sensitive stomachs - may want to limit consumption or rinse after eating
- • Those with fruit sensitivities - cross-reactivity possible though minimal documented
- • Individuals with specific medical conditions - consult healthcare provider if concerns
Possible Side Effects:
- •Allergic reactions (very rare) ranging from mild symptoms to swelling
- •Possible digestive adjustment from tart acidic nature initially
- •Potential acid-related tooth sensitivity with high consumption
- •Minimal side effects documented for fresh jocote
- •Generally well-tolerated by most individuals
Preparation Safety:
- • Rinse jocote under water before eating
- • Use clean utensils for handling and preparation
- • Wash hands after handling raw fruit
- • Remove pit carefully before consumption
- • Discard any moldy or deteriorated fruit
- • Use fresh jocote within 1-2 weeks or refrigerate
- • Freeze juice or pulp for long-term safe storage
- • Rinse mouth after consuming to protect tooth enamel
- • Start with small amounts to assess individual tolerance
- • Follow proper food safety guidelines for handling and storage
Fun Facts
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Jocote native to Central America with traditional cultivation by Aztec and Mayan civilizations for centuries
Good vitamin C (33% DV) supports superior immune function among Central American tropical fruits
Distinctive tart tangy flavor provides natural digestive benefits with organic acids
Good copper (8% DV) supports collagen synthesis and immune system function
Very low calorie (46/100g) among lowest of tropical fruits supporting weight management
Rich polyphenols and flavonoids provide antioxidant benefits comparable to cultivated fruits
Very low glycemic index (32) and load (3) ideal for blood sugar management and diabetes-friendly
Very high water content (86.9%) supporting superior hydration and cellular health
Organic acids naturally present supporting traditional digestive and wellness practices
Limited global availability makes jocote specialty regional product primarily in Central America
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes jocote unique among Central American tropical fruits and what is the significance of its tart tangy flavor?
HealthJocote distinctive Central American tropical fruit with unique characteristics. TART FLAVOR: Distinctive tangy tart flavor characteristic. Sour profile. Crisp texture. Flavor complexity. Taste intensity. TART FLAVOR SIGNIFICANCE: Tartness indicates ripeness. Flavor marker. Digestive benefit. Traditional use. Palate distinctive. GOOD VITAMIN C: 33% DV good content. Immune superiority. Antioxidant support. Seasonal benefit. Nutritional value. CRISP TEXTURE: Crisp juicy texture unique. Firm consistency. Pleasant sensation. Textural appeal. Eating experience. COMPARED TO MANGO: Jocote tartness distinctive. Different profile. Lower calorie. Unique flavor. Complementary benefits. COMPARED TO CITRUS: Jocote different acid profile. Natural tartness. Organic acids. Digestive support. Flavor distinctive. ORGANIC ACIDS: Natural acids present. Digestive benefit. Flavor characteristic. Traditional use. Health support. POLYPHENOL RICHNESS: Rich antioxidant compounds. Anti-inflammatory benefits. Cardiovascular support. Disease prevention. Cellular protection. VERY LOW CALORIE: 46/100g exceptionally low. Weight management ideal. Metabolic health. Calorie-conscious options. CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE: Central American heritage. Mesoamerican tradition. Historical use. Culinary foundation. Wellness tradition. BOTTOM LINE: Jocote distinctive Central American tropical fruit with good vitamin C (33% DV), good copper (8% DV), distinctive tart tangy flavor providing taste complexity and traditional digestive benefits, very low calorie, crisp juicy texture, rich polyphenols with anti-inflammatory benefits, organic acids with digestive support, low glycemic profile, Central American heritage, and distinctive nutritional and flavor profile central to Central American culinary tradition.
What are the best culinary applications for jocote and which traditional Central American recipes showcase its flavor?
RecipesJocote versatile Central American tropical fruit ingredient with traditional applications emphasizing tangy flavor and specialty preparations. FRESH EATING: Direct consumption traditional. Whole fruit eating. Tangy taste. Simple enjoyment. Cultural preparation. SNACK PREPARATION: Direct snacking popular. Portable fruit. Convenient eating. Tart refreshment. Modern application. JUICE PREPARATION: Fresh juice traditional. Strained juice. Refreshment drink. Natural beverage. JOCOTE JUICE: Fresh jocote 2 cups, extract juice, strained, drink fresh. JAM PREPARATION: Jocote jam traditional. Preserve classic. Sweetened preparation. Regional specialty. Culinary heritage. JOCOTE JAM: Jocote 2 cups, sugar 1.5 cups, cook to gel stage, jar. PICKLE PREPARATION: Jocote pickles traditional. Vinegar base. Fermented preparation. Condiment specialty. Regional favorite. JOCOTE PICKLE: Jocote 2 cups, vinegar 1 cup, salt 2 tablespoons, spices, jar. SMOOTHIE PREPARATION: Jocote smoothies growing. Yogurt base optional. Honey sweetening. Tropical enhancement. Nutritious beverage. JOCOTE SMOOTHIE: Jocote juice 1 cup, mango 1, yogurt 150ml, honey 1 tablespoon, blend well. BOTTOM LINE: Jocote quintessential Central American tropical fruit ingredient with traditional fresh fruit eating as primary consumption, juice as refreshment beverage, jam as preserve classic, pickle as condiment specialty, smoothie as nutritious beverage, and recipes highlighting distinctive tart tangy flavor, good vitamin C and copper content delivery, organic acids with digestive benefits, very low calorie, and Central American culinary tradition.
Is jocote safe for consumption and what populations should be aware of?
SafetyJocote safe for consumption with generally good safety record. Generally well-tolerated by most populations. ALLERGY INFO: Jocote allergies extremely rare. Tropical fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with fruit sensitivities should consult allergist. Cross-reactivity with other tropical fruits possible but rare. PREGNANCY CONSIDERATIONS: Jocote safe during pregnancy. Vitamin C beneficial. Fiber helpful. Water content helpful. Moderation recommended. Consult healthcare provider. BREASTFEEDING: Jocote likely safe during breastfeeding. Limited research available. Consult healthcare provider. Infant safety considerations important. Traditional use supportive. CHILDREN CONSIDERATIONS: Jocote safe for children. Tart flavor appealing. Digestible fruit. Nutritious food option. Age-appropriate consumption. MEDICATION INTERACTIONS: Jocote minimal medication interaction. No known significant interactions. Medical consultation optional. Generally compatible. ACID SENSITIVITY: Jocote tannic acid content. Tooth enamel consideration. Rinse after consumption recommended. Generally well-tolerated. Moderation important. KIDNEY PATIENTS: Jocote moderate potassium (6% DV). Kidney disease patients likely safe. Consult provider if concerns. Low potassium advantage. ORAL HEALTH: Acid content moderate. Tooth enamel protection important. Rinse after consumption recommended. Moderation important. SIDE EFFECTS: Minimal side effects documented. Allergic reactions very rare. Digestive adjustment from tartness possible initially. Most individuals tolerating well. STORAGE SAFETY: Proper storage important. Use before deterioration. Fresh consumption optimal. Freezing maintains safety. PESTICIDE CONCERNS: Jocote cultivated with varying practices in Central America. Organic jocote available. Conventional fruit acceptable. Rinse before consuming. Central American suppliers often sustainable. BOTTOM LINE: Jocote safe for consumption for most populations with generally good safety record, extremely rare allergies with possible tropical fruit cross-reactivity if sensitive, minimal medication interactions, safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding with moderation, safe for children with tart flavor appeal, low potassium benefit for kidney disease patients, acid consideration requiring rinse after consumption, and generally safe with minimal precautions needed.
What is the cultural significance of jocote in Central American cuisine and how has it been recognized globally?
CultureJocote profound cultural significance in Central American culinary tradition and emerging global interest in indigenous fruits. CENTRAL AMERICAN ORIGINS: Native to Central America. Mesoamerican traditional cultivation. Indigenous heritage. Regional significance. Historical root. INDIGENOUS USES: Aztec and Mayan traditional staple. Food heritage spanning centuries. Traditional knowledge. Cultural practice. Indigenous wellness. REGIONAL IDENTITY: Central American signature fruit. Regional agricultural heritage. Regional economic importance. Cultural symbol. Indigenous pride. MESOAMERICAN HERITAGE: Aztec and Mayan cultivation center. Indigenous knowledge. Traditional practices. Tribal connection. Cultural meaning. MARKET STATUS: Limited market presence. Specialty regional ingredient. Growing recognition. Niche market. Emerging interest. MODERN EXPANSION: Indigenous fruit movement growth. Specialty market recognition. Sustainability interest expanding. Global awareness increasing. International curiosity growing. HEALTH TRENDS: Contemporary indigenous food recognition. Fiber emphasis. Antioxidant benefits. Scientific validation. Health community interest. DIASPORA SIGNIFICANCE: Central American communities maintaining traditions. Cultural heritage preservation. Identity connection. Intergenerational transmission. AUTHENTIC SOURCING: Central American jocote appreciation. Authentic experience seeking. Quality emphasis. Cultural authenticity. CULINARY REVIVAL: Contemporary chef interest. Modern applications. Heritage ingredient innovation. Culinary artistry. Specialty market. SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS: Traditional cultivation methods. Biodiversity support. Heritage preservation. Environmental stewardship. Conservation importance. GLOBAL RECOGNITION: International awareness minimal but growing. Indigenous food community interest. Consumer awareness limited. Niche global market. Specialty positioning. BOTTOM LINE: Jocote profound cultural significance as Central American tropical fruit native to region, traditional cultivation heritage of Aztec and Mayan cultures spanning centuries, Central American agricultural and indigenous identity, traditional food staple and cultural practice significance, regional specialty and market presence, modern indigenous fruit movement recognition emphasizing traditional nutritional benefits, expanding international specialty market as niche product, indigenous heritage preservation and diaspora significance, authentic Central American sourcing appreciation, and emerging global market recognition as distinctive Central American indigenous culinary specialty ingredient.
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Environmental Impact
Sustainability insights
Sustainability Overview
Jocote cultivation represents Central American agricultural practice with environmental benefits. Advantages include tree cultivation in tropical regions, traditional farming methods, biodiversity support, and ecosystem integration. Challenges include limited cultivation area, specialty market constraints, habitat loss from development, and overharvesting pressure. Sustainable practices include organic farming, supporting Central American producers, agroforestry integration, and fair-trade sourcing.
Carbon Footprint
Jocote carbon footprint varies by cultivation region and transportation method. Primary cultivation in Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Central America. Long-distance international shipping increasing carbon impact. Organic cultivation reducing overall environmental footprint. Supporting Central American local production reducing transportation. Seasonal purchasing when available.
Water Usage
Jocote cultivation adapted to tropical rainfall patterns. Tree cultivation supporting biodiversity. Moderate water requirements. Sustainable water management integrated. Rainfed cultivation supporting natural growth. Minimal irrigation supplementation needed.
Local vs Imported
Supporting Central American jocote producers maximizes environmental benefit. Direct Central American sourcing. Sustainable farming practices preferred. Traditional cultivation supporting. Indigenous knowledge supporting. Local processing reducing carbon footprint. Supporting Central American agricultural heritage. BEST PRACTICES: Choose Central American-sourced jocote, support sustainable producers, source from fair-trade suppliers, purchase seasonally when available (April-July), minimize processing and packaging.