Ripe Papaya

Ripe Papaya (locally known as Paka Pepe) is a popular tropical fruit in Bangladesh, cherished for its musky-sweet flavor and soft, butter-like consistency. It is a staple in the country, widely available in markets and stores, particularly during the summer and monsoon seasons. Ripe papaya is a delicious and healthy fruit, often enjoyed fresh, as a dessert, or blended into smoothies.This fruit is a nutritional powerhouse, known for its high content of essential vitamins and enzymes. Ripe papaya is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system. It also contains Vitamin A, which is vital for eye health, and folate. The most unique component of papaya is the enzyme papain, which is known to aid in digestion by breaking down proteins and is often used to tenderize meat. The fruit is also rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and lycopene, which help protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of certain diseases.Key Features & Benefits:High in Vitamin C: A single serving of papaya can provide more than the daily recommended intake of Vitamin C, boosting immunity and protecting against illness.Aids Digestion: The papain enzyme helps the body break down proteins and promotes a healthy digestive system.Promotes Eye Health: Rich in Vitamin A and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for good vision and may protect against age-related eye disorders.Rich in Antioxidants: Contains beta-carotene and lycopene, which combat oxidative stress and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.Delicious and Versatile: Can be enjoyed fresh, juiced, or added to a variety of savory and sweet dishes.How to Identify a Ripe Papaya:Color: The skin should be mostly yellow or orange-gold, with only a few green spots remaining.Texture: When you gently press the fruit with your fingertips, it should give slightly, similar to a ripe avocado. Avoid papayas that are hard or have mushy spots.Aroma: A ripe papaya will have a faint, sweet smell near the stem end.Price in Dhaka, Bangladesh (Current as of August 12, 2025):The price of ripe papayas can vary based on size, variety (local or Thai), and market location. They are most commonly sold per kg.Average Price per kg: Expect prices to be in the range of ৳85 - ৳190 per kg, with prices for smaller local varieties being on the lower end, and larger or special varieties like Thai papaya being more expensive.Price per piece: A medium-sized ripe papaya might cost around ৳65 - ৳105 depending on its weight.(Note: Prices for fresh produce are highly dynamic and can fluctuate daily based on market conditions.)Where to Buy in Dhaka, Bangladesh:Ripe papayas are widely available across various retail and online platforms in Dhaka:Local Kitchen Markets ( কাঁচাবাজার ): The most common place to find fresh papayas.Major Superstores: Shwapno, Agora, Meena Bazar, and Unimart, where they are sold both whole and sometimes pre-cut.Online Grocery & E-commerce Platforms:Chaldal.com: A primary platform for online grocery purchases, offering both green and ripe papayas by the kg.Foodpanda (pandamart): Offers quick delivery of fresh fruits from local marts.Daraz.com.bd: A major e-commerce platform that carries a wide range of fresh produce.Roadside Vendors: During the season, you will find numerous vendors selling ripe papayas on the streets.