Question 1

What is Artocarpus incisus called in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lanka, Artocarpus incisus is known as 'del' (දෙල්) in Sinhala. It is commonly referred to in English as breadfruit. The tree and its fruit are well known across the island's wet-zone home gardens and rural communities.

Question 2

Is breadfruit used in Ayurvedic medicine in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Artocarpus incisus is formally catalogued as an Ayurvedic medicinal plant in Sri Lanka. The fruit, leaves, bark, and latex each have documented traditional uses, including topical skin treatments, digestive support, and anti-inflammatory applications. Modern research is beginning to explore the pharmacological basis for several of these uses.

Question 3

How is del (breadfruit) cooked in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Unripe breadfruit is most commonly cooked as a curry with coconut milk, turmeric, and spices — a preparation known as del curry. Ripe fruit is sometimes roasted or eaten boiled. In some households, ripe breadfruit is used in sweet preparations mixed with coconut.

Question 4

Where does breadfruit grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Breadfruit thrives in Sri Lanka's wet zone, particularly in the Western, Southern, and Sabaragamuwa provinces. It is a common tree in traditional home gardens and grows well at low to mid elevations where rainfall is high and temperatures are consistently warm.

Question 5

What are the health benefits of breadfruit?

Accepted Answer

Breadfruit is a good source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fibre, potassium, and vitamin C. Unripe breadfruit has a relatively low glycaemic response, making it of interest for blood glucose management. Its fibre content also supports digestive health, and phytochemical studies have identified antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in the fruit and leaves.

Question 6

Can you buy dried breadfruit from Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dehydrated breadfruit slices are produced commercially in Sri Lanka and are available as a shelf-stable snack or cooking ingredient. They preserve many of the nutritional qualities of fresh breadfruit and are convenient for international shipping.

Question 7

Is breadfruit the same as jackfruit?

Accepted Answer

No, though they are related. Both belong to the Moraceae family and the Artocarpus genus, but they are distinct species. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is generally much larger, has a stronger aroma, and contains seeds within fibrous pods, while breadfruit is typically seedless with a more uniform, starchy flesh.

Artocarpus incisus

Other species in this genus

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Lakpura Dehydrated Bread Fruit (Dhel/Artocarpus Altillis) Slices (100g)