Subscribe for all my updates and don't miss a thing! Sign me up!
What Is The Abiu Fruit?
A Unique Discovery In Jamaica
Sharing Is Caring! Share this awesome content with your friends now.
New! See the real Jamaica in VIDEOS!
Click Here and see why over 140,000 fans are raving about my YouTube Channel!
By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer
If you're strolling through parts of South America or some even other Caribbean islands, you might come across a delightful fruit known as Abiu. But to come across this gem in Jamaica is definitely a wild card.
New! Take a piece of Jamaica with you💃!
Savour the memories! Now you can get your authentic Jamaican souvenir items, as well as traditional Jamaican herbs, spices and housewares on our popular e-store. Click Here to learn more.
And, if you ever need a trustworthy and knowledgeable local guide, consider booking a private tour with us!
We first learned about Abiu fruit thanks to Sir Tom, who introduced it to us here at My-Island-Jamaica during an interview with our founder, Wellesley. Sir Tom has a knack for discovering and cultivating exotic fruits in Jamaica, it's his passion! As a matter of fact, he's also the one who introduced us to the intriguing Jaboticaba and the Ice Cream Bean Fruit.
What is Abiu Fruit?
Abiu is a tropical gem of a fruit, but very uncommon in Jamaica. It is scientifically named Pouteria caimito and belongs to the Sapotaceae family. Like most tropical fruits it is more than just a sweet treat—it packs a punch of nutrients and a unique flavor profile. Abiu also goes by various names like caimito, yellow sapote, or luma depending on where you are. It is a round to oval-shaped fruit about the size of a tennis ball. When ripe, its thin, pale yellow skin turns a vibrant shade of yellow, indicating it's ready to eat. In my opinion, it somewhat reminds me of a Passion fruit from the outside.
Is Abiu Fruit Sweet?
Oh, absolutely! The flesh of Abiu is a translucent, jelly-like delight that's often compared to tasting like caramel, with hints of vanilla. According to Wellesley who gave it a taste test in the video, it reminds him of our Jamaican Star Apple. And if that is true, It's no wonder it's a favourite in desserts across the world and eaten fresh for its natural sweetness.
Nutritional Value of Abiu
Per 100 grams of Abiu has around 67 calories and is mostly water, making it a hydrating snack. It's low in fats but high in carbohydrates from natural sugars, giving you a quick energy boost. Plus, its fibre content supports digestion and helps you feel full and satisfied.
Benefits of Abiu Fruit
As I mentioned above, Abiu isn't just about its sweet taste—it's a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals.
- Improves Vision: Abiu fruit is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good eyesight. It helps prevent eye diseases and promotes healthy vision.
- Boosts Immune System: With its high vitamin C content, Abiu strengthens the immune system, helping your body fight off infections and illnesses more effectively.
- Rich in Vitamin B3: Abiu is a good source of niacin (vitamin B3), which supports skin health, the digestive system, and the nervous system.
- Aids in Digestion: The fibre in Abiu fruit helps promote regular bowel movements and prevents constipation, supporting overall digestive health.
- Helps with Respiratory Issues: In traditional Brazilian medicine, the sticky pulp of Abiu is used to treat respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, and bronchitis.
- Antioxidant Properties: Abiu contains antioxidants that help protect your body from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting a healthy immune system.
- Hydration: With its high water content, Abiu fruit helps keep you hydrated, which is essential for maintaining optimal body functions.
- Supports Weight Management: Low in calories and high in dietary fibre, Abiu can help you feel full and satisfied, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
How to Eat Abiu Fruit
You can simply scoop out the flesh (tastes even better if you chill the fruit first) and eat it fresh or cut it into segments for a fruit salad. Some even blend it into smoothies or make ice cream and jams with its jelly-like pulp. Just remember, the outer skin is tough and inedible, so it's all about that sweet, creamy interior.
What Else Can You Do with Abiu?
Besides enjoying it fresh or in desserts, Abiu's versatile! You can add it to yoghurt, blend it into sherbets, or even use it to top pancakes for a tropical twist. Its natural sweetness makes it a hit in various culinary creations. Check out the comment section of our YouTube video below for some interesting ways commenters use the fruit, or join them and let us know how you use it as well.
In a nutshell, Abiu fruit isn't just a tasty treat—it's a nutritional powerhouse wrapped in a sweet, creamy package. Whether you're indulging straight from the tree or incorporating it into your favourite dishes, this fruit adds a tropical touch that's hard to resist. So, next time you spot this golden fruit, give it a try—you might just discover your new favourite tropical flavour!
Thanks again to Sir Tom for introducing us to this amazing discovery. Check out the video below!
You might like these
Refreshing Jamaican Sorrel | Here's A Simple Recipe
The Jamaican Sorrel drink has always been a integral part of food culture, and especially so in the festive season. Here's a little backround...plus the recipe!
Plants in Jamaica - 5 Marvels To Discover About The Flora Of Jamaica
Plants in Jamaica - Learn more about the beautiful and exciting flora of Jamaica
Foods Eaten in Jamaica - The Traditional And The Favourites
Here's a list of the traditional foods eaten in Jamaica as well as some of the favourites.
Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)
If you found this page useful, please consider subscribing to my weekly newsletter, to get even more.
It tells you each week about the new information that I have added, including new developments and great stories from lovers of Jamaica!
Return to Fruits In Jamaica from What Is The Abiu Fruit?
Return to My Island Jamaica Homepage from What Is The Abiu Fruit?
References & Sources For What Is The Abiu Fruit?
- Johanna, S., Johanna, S., & Johanna, S. (2019, July 5). Health Benefits of Abiu Fruit. Medindia. https://www.medindia.net/health/diet-and-nutrition/health-benefits-of-abiu-fruit.htm
- Kaushik, R. (2023, February 15). Abiu Fruit – Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts - PotsandPans India. PotsandPans India. https://www.potsandpans.in/blogs/articles/abiu-fruit-health-benefits-uses-and-important-facts#:~:text=Abiu%20fruit%20has%20important%20vitamins,them%20in%20a%20fruit%20salad
- Shaikh, A. (2023, October 27). Health Benefits Of Abiu Fruit - Klarity Health Library. Klarity Health Library. https://my.klarity.health/health-benefits-of-abiu-fruit/
New! Get My Latest Book👇🏿
 |
You asked, I've answered! You no longer need to save for months or years, to enjoy paradise! I spilled the beans! sharing my top tips on finding cozy accommodations and secret gems, only the way a native could! Click Here to pick it up on my e-store and start saving now! |
See The Best Of Jamaica - In Videos!
 |
My channel reaches over 140,000 subscribers worldwide and has leveraged over 11 million views, sharing, what I call 'The Real Jamaica'. Subscribe today and join our family of viewers. |
Read More ...
New! Experience The REAL Jamaica!
Book Your Private Tour here and experience Jamaica the way we (locals) do!
P.S. Didn't find what you were looking for?
Still need help?
Click Here to try our dependable and effective Site Search tool. It works!
Or, simply click here and here, to browse my library of over 500 questions and answers! Chances are someone already asked (and got an answer to) your question.
Featured Video!
Travelling To Jamaica?
Read this BEFORE you go
👇🏿
New Here?
I recommend you START HERE to enjoy the best of this website!
New! For Authentic Jamaican products, from my very own hands, visit my Etsy store here.
Recent Articles
-
Lychee Season In Jamaica | The Jamaican Chinese Guinep
Jul 01, 24 11:19 AM
Have you ever had a Lychee? Well according to the opinions of many locals, you are missing out. Lychee season in Jamaica is one of their favourites. -
Jamaican Hurricane/Storm Checklist
Jul 01, 24 09:42 AM
Well, the hurricane season is in and hurricane Beryl is upon us, whew😢. Being prepared allows us to secure the things that are important to us and also -
Easy Jamaican Curry Lobster Recipe
Jun 30, 24 09:44 PM
Combine your love of curry and seafood with this super easy Jamaican Curry Lobster recipe! -
2024 Highest Ranking High Schools In Jamaica |Top Schools in Jamaica
Jun 29, 24 08:10 PM
Here are the highest ranking high schools in Jamaica for 2024 based on the new Super 8 index. The criteria for this ranking is a lot tougher, making these schools the creme de la creme! -
What Is The Abiu Fruit? A Unique Discovery In Jamaica
Jun 28, 24 02:32 PM
Imagine coming across this tasty gem in Jamaica! What is the Abiu fruit?
About The Author
A patriotic Jamaican who adores its culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' since April 2007.
To date, he serves over 9,300 unique readers / viewers per day (and over 1.1millon page views monthly)
His efforts have earned this site featured positions in local publications, including the Jamaica Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica, Carlong Publishers, as well as recognition from numerous prestigious international agencies and universities. Read more about him here.
He invites you to subscribe to this site to stay updated on all the latest and check out his unique Jamaican products on his e-store.
If you are on social media, here are the links to follow his latest posts:
You are also invited to join his exclusive JAMHearts community where like-minded Jamaican enthusiasts discuss all things Jamaican.
Didn't Find What You Are Seeking?
Do a quick site search here:
New! Comments
Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below.