Fruits with a Worse Reputation than Durian: Are They Really Smellier?

Yes, durian is often considered one of the most infamous fruits due to its strong odor which many find off-putting. However, there are a few other fruits that also have a negative reputation. Let's delve into these tropical fruits and explore the reasons for their less-than-stellar reputations.

Introduction to Durian

Durian Durio zibethinus is a fruit from Southeast Asia, often referred to as the "King of Fruits." Despite its sweet and creamy flesh, it is famous for its strong and distinctive odor, which many people find difficult to tolerate. While some appreciate its unique taste, its reputation often overshadows its benefits.

Noni: Pungent Smell and Bitter Taste

Noni (Morinda citrifolia) is another fruit with a negative reputation due to its overwhelmingly pungent smell and bitter taste. The fruit is often described as having an odor reminiscent of rotten cheese. While it is used in traditional medicine, its flavor is not widely appreciated, especially by those who prefer more pleasant tasting fruits.

Hakutaku Buddhas Hand: Overwhelming Scent

The Hakutaku Buddhas Hand (Citrus medica) is a visually striking fruit with a very strong and distinct citrus scent. Its aroma can be overwhelming, and its texture and flavor are not to everyone's taste. As with many other aromatic fruits, it is more commonly used for its fragrance rather than consumption.

Soursop Graviola: Acquired Taste

The Soursop (Annona muricata) carries a reputation that varies among individuals. Some enjoy its flavor, while others find it to be an acquired taste. Physically, its texture can be off-putting and has a somewhat fibrous consistency. While gaining popularity, it still faces a divisive reputation for its odor and texture.

Jackfruit: Divisive Reputation

Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a fruit that has gained popularity but maintains a complex reputation. Its strong odor can be intense, and its meat-like texture is not appealing to everyone. Despite its growing recognition, many find it unattractive due to its smell and texture.

Bitter Melon: Overlooked as a Fruit

Bitter melon (Momordica charantia), while technically a vegetable, is often categorized with fruits. Its extremely bitter taste can deter many from trying it. However, it is still widely consumed in many parts of the world, especially in Southeast Asia and India.

Worse Reputation than Durian: Exploring Smellier Tropical Fruits

While durian is often at the top of the list for its odor, there are tropical fruits with even worse smells that are not as well-known outside their regions. Here are a few examples:

Kuini Binjai Lanjut: Strong Odor in the Mango Family

These fruits, native to the jungle of Malaysia, belong to the Mangifera family. Their strong odor is reminiscent of turpentine and paint, making them less appealing as food items. Although they can be very tasty, they are not commercially available due to their strong smell.

Cempedak: Strong Scent and Sweet Taste

The Cempedak (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a member of the jackfruit family and can have a strong smell. Some varieties, such as Tarap from Borneo, Malaysia, are incredibly sweet and can be enjoyed despite their distinctive smell. However, the smell can be quite overwhelming for some people.

Petai Jering and Kerdas: Unique Smell and Texture

Petai (Parkia speciosa), Jering (Kencur) , and Kerdas (Macaranga indica), while not typically consumed as fruits, have a unique smell and texture. These fruits are from the same family. People who have experienced consuming petai, jering, or kerdas often describe a sickening sweet aroma that can be quite off-putting. While these fruits have a distinctive flavor, their smell has the potential to cause prolonged discomfort, affecting not just the breath but also the body.

Conclusion

The reputation of durian as the "smelliest fruit" is well-earned, but there are other fruits that can be even more challenging to enjoy due to their extreme and unpleasant odors. Whether it's the pungent noni, the strong-scented cempedak, or the uniquely odiferous petai, these fruits have earned a reputation that is less than favorable among certain populations. However, it is important to note that taste and aroma are subjective, and what one person finds unappealing, another might find intriguing.