Mountain Papaya

Carica papaya var. mountain

Mountain papaya is a distinctive high-altitude tropical fruit with exceptional enzyme content and nutritional profile. Rich in vitamin C (103% DV) and papain enzyme, mountain papaya supports digestive health, immune wellness, and comprehensive antioxidant protection. At 43 calories per 100g with excellent nutrient density and remarkable digestive enzymes, mountain papayas are celebrated globally for their nutritional excellence and culinary versatility. Perfect for fresh eating, traditional preparations, enzyme supplements, salads, and comprehensive digestive wellness.

Calories

1.9g

Fiber

103%

Vitamin C

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Explore Mountain Papaya in stunning detail

Mountain Papaya - Main View

Nutrition Facts

Calories

per 100g

Carbs

10.8g

per 100g

Protein

0.6g

per 100g

Fiber

1.9g

per 100g

Sugar

7.8g

per 100g

Fat

0.3g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin C

103% DV

62 mg

Exceptional immune enhancement, powerful antioxidant protection, collagen synthesis, wound healing

Vitamin A

32% DV

950 IU (285 mcg RAE)

Exceptional vision support, immune function, skin health, antioxidant defense

Folate (B9)

9% DV

37 mcg

Cell division, DNA synthesis, neurological health, methylation support

Pantothenic Acid (B5)

4% DV

0.20 mg

Energy metabolism, hormone synthesis, stress response

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

4% DV

182 mg

Heart health, blood pressure regulation, muscle function, electrolyte balance

Manganese

3% DV

0.08 mg

Bone development, metabolism, antioxidant enzyme function

Magnesium

5% DV

21 mg

Muscle relaxation, nerve function, energy metabolism

🛡️Antioxidants

Vitamin CPapain enzymeBeta-CaroteneLycopeneFlavonoidsPolyphenols

🌿Phytonutrients

Papain - unique protein-digesting enzyme supporting optimal digestion, nutrient absorption, and protein breakdownLycopene - powerful antioxidant supporting cardiovascular health, cellular protection, and inflammation reductionFlavonoids - antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds supporting cellular protection and immune functionPolyphenols - diverse antioxidants supporting comprehensive wellness and disease prevention

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

100g fresh mountain papaya

Calories

43kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

10.8g

Fiber

1.9g

7% DV

Sugar

7.8g

Protein

0.6g

Fat

0.3g

Vitamin C

💊

62mg

103% DV

Potassium

⚡

182mg

4% DV

Health Benefits

Exceptional vitamin C content (103% DV) provides robust immune support, powerful antioxidant protection, and comprehensive cellular defense

Unique papain enzyme supports optimal digestion, protein breakdown, and nutrient absorption for digestive wellness

High vitamin A (32% DV) provides exceptional vision support, immune function, and skin health benefits

Polyphenol and flavonoid content supports cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and enhances cellular protection

Excellent fiber content (7% DV per serving) promotes digestive health, supports healthy microbiome, and aids satiety

Lycopene content supports cardiovascular health, cellular protection, and antioxidant defense

Low glycemic index (60) and load (6) support stable blood sugar levels and sustained energy

B vitamins (folate, pantothenic acid) support cell division, DNA synthesis, energy metabolism, and neurological health

Potassium (4% DV) and magnesium (5% DV) support cardiovascular health, muscle function, and electrolyte balance

Low calorie density (43 cal/100g) with exceptional nutrient concentration supports weight management and comprehensive wellness

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

Central and South America

Global Presence

Costa Rica

Panama

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Mexico

Guatemala

Honduras

Top Producers

Costa RicaEcuadorMexico

Historical Background

Mountain papaya has been cultivated for centuries throughout Central and South America by indigenous peoples who valued its exceptional digestive properties and nutritional benefits. Deeply embedded in traditional medicine and culinary practices, mountain papaya represents the rich agricultural heritage of the Americas. Modern science increasingly validates traditional knowledge about papain enzyme and comprehensive health benefits.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Peak season April-June

3 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

Costa Rican Mountain Papaya

Costa Rica

Color

Orange-yellow, uniform appearance

Taste Profile

Sweet flavor, creamy texture

Best For

Fresh eating, enzyme supplements

Hawaiian Mountain Papaya

Hawaii, Mexico

Color

Golden orange, pristine appearance

Taste Profile

Very sweet, mild tropical notes

Best For

Fresh eating, contemporary recipes

Ecuadorian Mountain Papaya

Ecuador, Peru

Color

Deep orange, distinctive coloring

Taste Profile

Balanced sweetness, complex flavor

Best For

Premium preparations, enzyme extraction

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select mountain papayas with yellow-orange color indicating ripeness and quality

Gently squeeze to test for slight softness; avoid overly soft or mushy fruits

Choose fruits with smooth skin free from bruises or dark spots

Ripe mountain papayas should emit sweet, tropical fragrance

Look for consistent color with no green patches remaining

Proper Storage Methods

Store unripe mountain papayas at room temperature for 2-5 days until fully ripe

Refrigerate ripe fruits in produce drawer for up to 1 week

Freeze papaya cubes or puree in ice cube trays for up to 6 months

Dried papaya pieces store for 1+ years in airtight containers in cool, dry conditions

Fresh papaya juice stores refrigerated for 2-3 days

Extract papain enzyme powder for long-term storage in cool, dark conditions

Shelf Life Guide

Refrigerated

1 week in refrigerator (ripe fruit)

Average Shelf Life

7 days

Freezing Instructions

Preserve freshness for months

2-3 months

Wash and dry mountain papayas thoroughly before freezing

Peel, remove seeds, and cut into cubes or blend into puree

Freeze on parchment-lined trays for 2-3 hours, then transfer to freezer bags

Frozen papaya maintains nutritional integrity and enzyme potency for 6-8 months

Thaw in refrigerator before use in smoothies or cooked preparations

Freeze-dried papaya preserves enzyme activity more effectively than liquid forms

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 eating as delicious tropical snack

Smoothie and beverage base

Salads and fresh preparations

Traditional Central American dishes

Contemporary gourmet cuisine applications

Desserts, tarts, and baked goods

Papain enzyme supplements and powders

Traditional medicinal preparations

Perfect Pairings

Lime - brightness and citrus balance

Coconut - tropical pairing

Ginger - warming spice enhancement

Honey - natural sweetness balance

Vanilla - classic dessert pairing

Dark chocolate - intensity enhancement

Mint - refreshing complement

Almonds - texture and nutrient density

Turmeric - wellness enhancement

Popular Recipes

Fresh mountain papaya smoothie

Papaya and lime salad

Traditional Central American papaya dish

Papaya smoothie bowl with toppings

Papaya compote with warm spices

Papaya and coconut preparation

Mountain papaya dessert or mousse

Fresh papaya and ginger juice

Papain enzyme supplement preparation

Refreshing Beverages

Fresh papaya juice

Papaya smoothie

Papaya and lime refreshment

Tropical papaya drink

Contemporary papaya wellness shot

Papaya and ginger preparation

Papaya antioxidant tonic

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Mountain papaya allergies are rare. Some individuals may have sensitivity to tropical fruits or latex (due to cross-reactivity with papaya plant).

Pesticide Concerns:

Mountain papayas from certified growers are typically pesticide-free. Purchase from reputable Central and South American sources specializing in traditional fruit cultivation and organic practices.

Who Should Avoid:

• People with latex allergies should exercise caution and test in small amounts first
• Pregnant individuals should consult healthcare providers about papain supplements
• Those taking anticoagulant medications should be aware of potential effects
• Individuals with fruit allergies should introduce gradually
• People with sensitive digestive systems should start with small amounts

Possible Side Effects:

•Generally very well-tolerated in normal amounts
•Seeds should be removed before consumption; discard or compost
•Excessive papain consumption may cause mild digestive effects in sensitive individuals
•Unripe papaya contains higher latex levels; select fully ripe fruits
•Very rare sensitivity reactions in individuals with tropical fruit allergies

Preparation Safety:

• Wash fruits thoroughly under running water before consumption
• Cut papaya in half and remove seeds completely before eating
• Do not consume unripe papaya; wait until fully yellow-orange
• Store properly to prevent rapid ripening or mold development
• Purchase papain supplements from certified, reputable sources ensuring purity
• Consult healthcare providers if pregnant or taking medications

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Mountain papaya has been used by Central and South American indigenous peoples for over 3,000 years for digestive and health support

The fruit's exceptional vitamin C content (103% DV) makes it one of the most vitamin C-rich tropical fruits globally

Papain enzyme is so valued that it's extracted commercially for use in meat tenderizers and digestive supplements worldwide

The papaya plant is actually a tree, not a true tree, making it one of the largest herbaceous plants

Mountain papaya seeds have a peppery taste and can be eaten or used as a traditional spice in some cuisines

Modern digestive enzyme supplements often feature papain as a primary ingredient for optimal digestion support

Mountain papaya leaf tea has been used traditionally for centuries to support overall wellness and vitality

Research increasingly validates traditional Central American uses of papain for protein digestion and nutrient absorption

The fruit's enzyme content is highest when the papaya is ripe, making timing crucial for maximum digestive benefits

Mountain papaya is one of the most enzyme-rich fruits available, earning it superfruit status globally

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mountain papaya and where does it come from?

General

Mountain papaya (Carica papaya var. mountain) is a tropical fruit cultivar native to Central and South America. Valued for centuries by indigenous peoples, mountain papaya is celebrated for its exceptional papain enzyme content, outstanding vitamin C levels (103% DV), and traditional medicinal properties supporting comprehensive digestive and immune health.

What are the nutritional benefits of mountain papaya?

Nutrition

Mountain papaya delivers exceptional vitamin C (103% DV per 100g) for immune support, high vitamin A (32% DV) for vision health, unique papain enzyme for digestion, excellent fiber (7% DV) for digestive wellness, and lycopene for cardiovascular health. At only 43 calories per 100g with comprehensive antioxidant protection.

What is papain and why is it important?

Health

Papain is a protein-digesting enzyme found abundantly in mountain papaya. It supports optimal digestion, breaks down proteins efficiently, enhances nutrient absorption, reduces bloating, and supports overall digestive wellness. Papain is so valued that it's extracted and sold as a digestive supplement worldwide.

Is mountain papaya good for digestive health?

Health

Yes, mountain papaya is exceptional for digestive health with papain enzyme supporting protein breakdown and nutrient absorption, fiber (7% DV) for gut health, and traditional use in Central American medicine for digestive support. The comprehensive enzyme and nutrient profile makes mountain papaya highly effective for digestive wellness.

How does mountain papaya taste?

General

Mountain papaya has a distinctively sweet flavor with creamy texture and mild tropical notes. The taste varies by variety: Costa Rican varieties are sweeter, Hawaiian varieties are very sweet with mild notes, and Ecuadorian varieties have balanced, complex flavor profiles.

What is the glycemic index of mountain papaya?

Nutrition

Mountain papaya has a moderate glycemic index of 60 and glycemic load of just 6 per 100g serving. Combined with excellent fiber content (7% DV), this makes mountain papaya suitable for blood sugar management, stable energy, and sustained satiety, particularly beneficial for metabolic wellness.

Where can you buy mountain papaya?

Shopping

Fresh mountain papayas are available at tropical fruit shops, farmer's markets, and specialty grocers (April-June peak season). Year-round options include frozen papaya, dried papaya, papain enzyme supplements, and powders from health food stores, supplement retailers, and online vendors.

How should mountain papayas be prepared?

Recipes

Eat fresh mountain papaya raw by cutting in half, removing seeds, and scooping flesh with a spoon. Blend into smoothies, prepare salads, or use in cooked preparations. The distinctive flavor pairs beautifully with lime, coconut, ginger, and tropical ingredients in both traditional and contemporary recipes.