Jumbo Papaya About 0.8 Kg Each • $5.49 / Kg Final Cost By Weight

The term **Jumbo Papaya** is often used to refer to the larger varieties of papaya, which are primarily known as **Mexican** or **Caribbean** papayas. These "Jumbo" types contrast with the smaller, pear-shaped varieties, such as the Hawaiian (or Solo) papayas, which are more common in US supermarkets. ### Key Characteristics of Jumbo Papaya | Characteristic | Jumbo/Mexican Papaya | Hawaiian/Solo Papaya | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | **Size** | **Much Larger**, often elongated like a melon. Can weigh up to 10 pounds (4.5 kg) or more. | **Smaller**, pear-shaped. Typically weighs about 1 pound (0.45 kg). | | **Flesh Color** | Can be yellow, orange, or pink. | Usually bright orange or pinkish. | | **Flavor** | Tends to be slightly muskier and less intensely sweet than Hawaiian varieties, though this can vary. | Generally sweeter and less musky. | | **Usage** | Because of their size, they are often used for bulk applications, such as large fruit salads, juice, or as a vegetable when green/unripe. | Ideal for individual servings. | ### General Papaya Nutrition and Health Benefits Regardless of the size, all ripe papayas (*Carica papaya*) are highly nutritious and offer several health benefits: * **Excellent Source of Vitamin C:** A single medium-sized papaya can provide well over 100% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system and collagen production. * **Rich in Antioxidants:** Papayas contain high levels of **beta-carotene**, **lycopene** (especially in red-fleshed types), and **zeaxanthin**. These antioxidants protect against cell damage and are linked to improved vision and reduced risk of chronic diseases. * **Aids Digestion:** Papaya contains the natural enzyme **papain**, which helps in the digestion of proteins and may alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The fruit's high fiber and water content also help prevent constipation. * **Low in Calories:** Papaya is a relatively low-calorie fruit, making it a great addition to a weight management diet. * **Vitamins and Minerals:** It's a good source of **Vitamin A**, **Folate**, **Potassium**, and **Magnesium**. **Note on Green (Unripe) Papaya:** The unripe or green papaya is treated as a vegetable and is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in Southeast Asian salads (like Thai **Som Tum**). It is firmer and has a milder flavor than the ripe fruit. The enzyme papain is more concentrated in the latex of the unripe fruit.