Chikoo Prices Explained

The chikoo market benefits from its established domestic Indian demand, thus solidifying its prices in the country. Indians primarily consume this fruit in smoothies and jams, even incorporating it into some delectable desserts.

Chikoo’s flavor profile is a combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and tropical fruit with a hint of caramel, making it a rising commodity in the food and beverage industries. As a result, chikoo exports grow steadily in Australia, averaging 5.1 metric tons. Additionally, Europe’s growing interest in this commodity made the region increase its imports. Thus, market experts cite a positive note for chikoo prices.

Why are chikoo prices fluctuating?

1. Weather Conditions

Due to weather-related difficulties, there are currently fewer chikoo supplies available. For instance, the tropical cyclone Tauktae that struck India’s western coasts at the end of May caused a supply shortage, raising domestic chikoo prices.

2. Shipping Costs

Generally, chikoo is a cheap fruit. However, the current geopolitical tension in the Red Sea made significant changes in the supply chain which lengthened travel and fuel costs. This means additional fees in shipping costs which reflect on retail chikoo prices.

3. Seasonal Variation

This commodity is a seasonal crop, therefore, its price might change depending on availability at different times of the year. Additionally, seasonal output fluctuations due to the effect of climate change will determine its abundance in the market, causing chikoo price variations.

4. Market Competition

Chikoo pricing depends on its variety and quality. For example, higher quality or those with special attributes command premium prices. Additionally, imported varieties from other regions boost higher prices than the local ones.

Which variables impact the price of chikoo?

• Weather Conditions
• Shipping Costs
• Market Demand
• Seasonal Variation
• Global Market Trends
• Pests and Disease Outbreak

Where does chikoo come from?

Chikoo or sapodilla is commonly grown in India. However,  this fruit thrives in other Asian countries like the Philippines, Pakistan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand. This tropical fruit has a sweet and juicy flesh, making it perfect for making desserts, smoothies, and other sweet dishes.

These are some common varieties of chikoo:

1. Pinera – This variety is slightly oval and medium in size.  Also, its flesh is dry and somewhat juicy, with a hard and slightly gritty texture beneath the thin brown skin.

2. Ponderosa – This particular variety is known for its large fruits weighing up to 350 grams compared to other chikoo varieties that typically range from 120 to 200 grams in weight.

3. Sawo Manila – This kind is distinguished by its light brown skin, oval form, and medium size. Additionally, it has the appearance of a kiwi fruit and tastes sweet like the combination of cinnamon and brown sugar.

4. Chico Común – This Mexican variety is popular for its medium-sized fruit with a skin that is reddish-brown.

5. Guatemalan Chikoo – From Guatemala, it is well-known for its medium-sized fruit with juicy and sweet flesh.

6. Ceylon Chikoo – Native to Sri Lanka, this tiny fruit has brown skin but tastes sweet.

What are the uses of chikoo?

Chikoo is high in nutrients and eating it is good for people who are on a diet. Additionally, its high content of minerals including calcium, potassium, vitamin C, and other vitamins plays a significant function in reviving the skin by keeping it wet and moisturized.

Furthermore, its fiber content serves several functions in digestion. Here are some of the most common uses of chikoo:

1. Fruit Production – The fruit is often eaten raw or used in various food applications like jams, sauces, and drinks.

2. Landscaping – Chikoo trees are ornamental and aesthetically pleasing and work well in gardens and landscaping. Thus, it is a popular choice for landscaping because of its beautiful fruit, glossy, and evergreen leaves.

3. Timber – Its wood is strong, resilient, and insect-resistant, making it ideal for building and furniture manufacturing.

4. Reforestation – The chikoo tree’s quick growth and versatility in various ranges of soil types and climates make it a popular choice for reforestation projects.

5. Soil Improvement – Its tree is utilized to enhance soil quality by improving fertility and mitigating soil erosion.

What is the future price of chikoo?

The growing trend of consumers choosing more sustainable and healthy food options slowly opens market opportunities for chikoo. It has a promising future due to its nutritional value and the possibility of creative cultivation and processing methods will further leverage its production.

For instance, Europe’s growing demand for exotic fruits made the region improve its cold storage and transportation technologies for longer shelf-life for goods that require longer shipment. Additionally, entrepreneurs are exploring innovative ways to utilize this fruit. One example is dehydrated chikoo powder which slowly integrates into small-to-medium food and beverage businesses.

Overall, the awareness of its health advantages and the campaign to lower fruit waste is a great help in its market expansion. The price of chikoo will be $1.90 per kilogram in 2028, with a forecasted CAGR of 3.6%.