Custard Apple Production Increases by 25% in Southern India

In 2023, Ashoka Shivareddy reported a production increase of custard apples to approximately 25 tonnes, up from 20 tonnes in the previous year. The demand for custard apples is noted to be significant in both domestic and international markets. The Indian Institute of Horticulture Research (IIHR) has contributed to enhancing the custard apple varieties with the development of hybrid fruits like Arka Sahan, which has increased pulp recovery from 30% to 70%. This hybrid also has a longer shelf life, addressing a significant issue with traditional varieties and potentially improving marketability.