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Pacay
Inga feuilleei
Pacay, also known as the ice-cream bean, is a tropical fruit native to Central and South America. It belongs to the legume family and is known for its unique texture and mildly sweet flavor. The fruit's pod contains a soft, cotton-like pulp surrounding black seeds, which are edible and have a taste reminiscent of vanilla ice cream. Pacay is not only delicious but also rich in nutrients, making it a valuable addition to diets in regions where it grows. Its soft pulp is often eaten raw, while the seeds can be roasted or ground into a flour for baking. Pacay is also celebrated for its sustainability, as it helps improve soil fertility and provides shade for other crops.
110
Calories
6g
Fiber
17%
Vitamin C
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Pacay Nutrition Facts
Calories
110
Per 100g
Carbs
18g
Per 100g
Protein
4g
Per 100g
Fiber
6g
Per 100g
Sugar
8g
Per 100g
Fat
3g
Per 100g
💊Vitamins
Per 100g
Vitamin C
17% DV
15mg
Supports immune function and collagen production.
Vitamin A
1% DV
60IU
Promotes vision health and skin integrity.
⚡Minerals
Per 100g
Potassium
8% DV
350mg
Regulates blood pressure and heart function.
Magnesium
11% DV
45mg
Supports bone health and energy production.
Phosphorus
7% DV
70mg
Essential for bone and teeth health.
🛡️Antioxidants
FlavonoidsPolyphenols
🌿Phytonutrients
LuteinZeaxanthin
📊Glycemic Index
35
Per Serving
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
📏
Serving Size
100g
Calories
110kcal
Breakdown
Carbs
18g
Fiber
6g
24% DV
Sugar
8g
Protein
4g
Fat
3g
Vitamin C
💊
15mg
17% DV
Potassium
⚡
350mg
8% DV
Health Benefits of Pacay
Benefit 1: Pacay is rich in fiber, which aids digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, supporting weight management.
Benefit 2: The high potassium content in Pacay helps regulate blood pressure and supports cardiovascular health.
Benefit 3: Pacay contains antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Benefit 4: The vitamin C in Pacay boosts the immune system and supports collagen production for healthy skin and connective tissue.
Benefit 5: Pacay's magnesium content supports bone health, muscle function, and energy production in the body.
Pacay Origin & Distribution
Native Region
Central and South America
Global Presence
Costa RicaColombiaPeruEcuador
Top Producers
Costa RicaPeru
Historical Background
Pacay has been cultivated for centuries in its native regions, valued for its nutritional content and versatility. It has played a significant role in traditional diets and agricultural systems, particularly in agroforestry practices.
Pacay Peak Season
Best Time to Enjoy
Year-round in tropical regions
1 Varieties Available
Pacay Varieties
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Inga feuilleei
Central and South America
Color
Green pod with white pulp and black seeds
Taste Profile
Mildly sweet with a vanilla-like flavor
Best For
Eaten raw or used in desserts
Pacay Storage & Selection Guide
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
How to Choose the Perfect Fruit
1
Look for firm, green pods without blemishes.
2
Ensure the pods are plump and slightly heavy for their size.
Proper Storage Methods
Store Pacay in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerate to extend shelf life.
Shelf Life Guide
Room Temperature
3-5 days
Refrigerated
Up to 10 days
Average Shelf Life
5 days
Freezing Instructions
Preserve freshness for months
2-3 months
1
Freeze the pulp after removing seeds for later use in smoothies or desserts.
2
Store seeds separately in an airtight container.
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
Eat the pulp raw as a snack.
Use the pulp in smoothies, ice cream, or desserts.
Roast the seeds and use them as a snack or in baking.
Perfect Pairings
Pairs well with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple.Complements dairy products like yogurt and ice cream.Can be used in baked goods like cookies and cakes.
Popular Recipes
Pacay ice cream
Pacay smoothie
Roasted Pacay seeds
Refreshing Beverages
Pacay-infused milkshakes
Pacay and coconut smoothie
Safety Information
Allergy Information:
Individuals with legume allergies should exercise caution when consuming Pacay.
Pesticide Concerns:
Pacay is generally low in pesticide residues, but it is recommended to wash the pods thoroughly before consumption.
Who Should Avoid:
- • People with legume allergies
- • Individuals with known sensitivities to tropical fruits
Possible Side Effects:
- •Possible allergic reactions in sensitive individuals
- •Mild digestive discomfort if consumed in excess
Preparation Safety:
- • Wash the pods thoroughly before consuming.
- • Ensure seeds are fully roasted if consumed.
Fun Facts About Pacay
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Pacay is also known as the 'ice-cream bean' due to its vanilla-like flavor.
The seeds of Pacay can be roasted and ground into a flour for baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Pacay taste like?
GeneralPacay has a mildly sweet flavor with hints of vanilla, often compared to vanilla ice cream.
How do I know if Pacay is ripe?
BuyingRipe Pacay pods are green, firm, and slightly heavy. Avoid pods with blemishes or soft spots.
Can I freeze Pacay?
StorageYes, you can freeze the pulp for later use in smoothies or desserts. Store the seeds separately.
What are some popular culinary uses for Pacay?
CulinaryPacay is often eaten raw, used in smoothies, or incorporated into desserts like ice cream. The seeds can be roasted and eaten as a snack.
Is Pacay high in sugar?
NutritionPacay has a moderate sugar content of 8 grams per 100 grams, making it a balanced choice for those watching their sugar intake.
Does Pacay have any health interactions?
HealthPacay is generally safe for most people, but individuals with allergies to legumes should exercise caution.
Is Pacay sustainable?
MiscellaneousYes, Pacay is considered sustainable as it improves soil fertility and provides shade for other crops in agroforestry systems.
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Environmental Impact
Sustainability insights
Sustainability Overview
Pacay is highly sustainable as it helps improve soil fertility and provides shade for other crops in agroforestry systems.
Carbon Footprint
Low due to minimal processing and local cultivation.
Water Usage
Moderate, as Pacay is a tropical plant that requires consistent watering.
Local vs Imported
Locally grown Pacay is more sustainable due to reduced transportation emissions.
Data sources & transparency
We aim to keep this Pacay profile accurate and easy to understand. Nutrition values and % Daily Value figures are based on established reference databases and standard daily value guidance.
- USDA FoodData Central (nutrition reference): fdc.nal.usda.gov
- FDA Daily Values (label standards used for %DV): fda.gov
Last updated: May 12, 2026
Medical disclaimer
This page is for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.
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