ONLY in Jamaica is this fruit called June plum. It is known in other countries as Jew plum, golden apple or hog plum. Its botanical name is ambarella spondias dulcis ambere and was introduced in Jamaica in 1782.

June plums are commonly used to make jams and juices. The Jamaican June plum is not only cultivated in Jamaica, but also in Puerto Rico, Cuba, Haiti and Venezuela, just to name a few countries.

In south-east Asia young Jamaican june plum leaves are consumed raw and are steamed and eaten as a vegetable with salted fish and rice in Indonesia. In Trinidad and Tobago the fruit of the june plum is curried, sweetened, salted or flavoured with pepper sauce and spices.

* June plum contains protein and dietary fibre. It is fat-free, cholesterol-free and unsaturated.

* June plums are an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of vitamin K.

* The natural antioxidants are good for proper bodily functions.

* June plum is a good source of iron and the unripe ones contain a high amount of protein.

* They are an excellent treatment for headaches, constipation and even diabetes.

* The root of the plum can be used to treat itchy skin.

Ensure to make good use of the fruits that are in season and abundant such as this fruit. Happy eating!