THE durian, often dubbed the King of Fruits, is notorious for its signature smell, which can be off-putting to the uninitiated.
Over the years, many scientists have explored the idea of developing an odourless variety.
Is it true that such an odourless durian has been developed?
Verdict:
TRUE
In 2007, Dr Songpol Somsri, a Thai government scientist, announced the creation of Chantaburi No. 1, the first non-smelly durian cultivar.
Dr Somsri's work involved cross-breeding more than ninety different varieties of durian to create this hybrid.
The goal was to produce a durian with a milder scent, making it more appealing to broader markets, particularly in Europe, where the strong odour often deters potential consumers.
Despite this innovation, the odourless durian has received mixed reactions among fans of the odourific fruit.
Some enthusiasts argue that the pungent aroma is an integral part of the durian experience and that removing it diminishes the fruit's appeal.
Critics questioned whether odourless durians "would taste right" as it would be lacking a characteristic that made the fruit unique.
Cultural and traditional elements tied to the durian's smell are also considered essential to its identity.
Nevertheless, the potential for an odourless durian to be more widely accepted, especially in public spaces where the smell can be problematic, is a significant consideration.
Researchers have identified the genetic basis for the durian's pungent smell, paving the way for further developments.
However, the market success of odourless durians remains uncertain, as they may not attract traditional durian lovers who cherish the fruit's distinctive aroma.
References:
1. https://www.npr.org/2007/
2. https://www.fruitnet.com/
3. https://www.thedailymeal.
