Sapota Powder

The sapota or sapodilla tree (botanical name: Achras zapota of sapotaceae family) grows in regions of the tropical and subtropical climates in south, west, and east 1ndia.l The Indian sapota tree is about half the size of the original South or Central American species which may grow to an average height of about 15 m.2 The American plant exudes milky latex when the bark of the trunk is cut while the Indian plant is mostly dry. However, when the fruit of the Indian plant is plucked from its calyx, a milky latex oozes out. Sapota commonly called chiku is an important fruits of India. Due to its hardy nature. It is the most common plant of the kitchen gardens.

• Sapodilla is one of the high calorie fruits; 100 g provides 83 calories (almost same as that of calories in sweet potato, and banana).
• it is a very good source of dietary fiber (5.6 g/100g), which makes it an excellent bulk laxative.
• Sapote contains a good amount of antioxidant vitamins like vitamin C (24.5% of recommended daily intake per 100 g of fruit), and vitamin A.
• It is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin.
• The gum, called chicle is extracted from the stem by tapping and is used in the manufacture of cheuring gum.
• Jam and Jellies are prepared from sapota and sold in tins.
• The bark of sapota tree contains Tannin, which is used in leather tanning Industries and in the manufacture of Ink.
• Glucose and pectin are extracted from the fruit.
• Sapota tree resists diseases and is a sturdy, strong tree. It yields better in company – that is it needs one or more trees nearly for cross – pollination.