MAKASSAR, Indonesia May 31 2026 /Postharvest Metabo-Engineering/-Durian is widely known as the “King of Fruits” because of its large size, strong aroma, and unique taste. While some people love it and others avoid it, durian has become one of the most famous tropical fruits in Southeast Asia. Beyond its distinctive flavor, scientists have recently discovered that durian contains many important nutrients and bioactive compounds that can support human health and sustainable industries. Today, durian is no longer viewed only as a delicious fruit, but also as a valuable source of innovation in food science, medicine, and agriculture.
An important scientific review titled “Durian (Durio zibethinus L.): Nutritional Composition, Pharmacological Implications, Value-Added Products, and Omics-Based Investigations” was published on 29 March 2024 in the journal Horticulture by the publisher MDPI. The article discusses the nutritional value of durian, its potential health benefits, the development of value-added products, and the role of modern omics technologies in improving durian cultivation and research. Scientists also highlighted how durian waste, including peels and seeds, can be transformed into useful products for various industries.
Durian fruit is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It contains vitamin C, potassium, folate, and antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress. Researchers also found important bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols in durian pulp. These compounds are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential disease-prevention properties. Some studies even suggest that durian extracts may have antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and anticancer effects. Because of these findings, durian is increasingly being explored as a functional food that offers health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
Interestingly, the scientific value of durian does not stop at its edible pulp. Around 60% of the fruit consists of peel, while the seeds also contribute a significant portion of the total fruit weight. In the past, these materials were usually discarded as waste. However, researchers now see them as valuable resources. Durian peels can be processed into biochar, antibacterial extracts, wound-dressing materials, and even cosmetic ingredients such as skin moisturizers. Durian seeds can be transformed into flour, vegan food ingredients, and food stabilizers. This innovation supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, which encourages the efficient use of resources and reduction of waste through sustainable production systems.
Modern omics technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, are also helping scientists better understand durian biology. Through these technologies, researchers can identify genes related to aroma, sweetness, fruit ripening, and nutritional quality. This knowledge can help farmers and breeders develop new durian varieties with better taste, stronger disease resistance, and improved shelf life. As global demand for tropical fruits continues to grow, scientific research on durian can support more sustainable agricultural practices and increase economic opportunities for local farmers.
The future of durian is much bigger than many people imagine. What was once considered only an exotic tropical fruit is now becoming a symbol of innovation in food science, health, and sustainable agriculture. By combining traditional knowledge with modern scientific technology, durian has the potential to contribute not only to human nutrition, but also to a greener and more sustainable future for the world.
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Reference:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae10040342
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