Significance of the Edible Banana Species of Mizoram: Research Status and Prospects

Authors: Lalhmangaihi; Himjyoti Dutta

Book: Sustainable Food Innovations: Product Development, Packaging, and Waste Valorization

Editors: K. Prasad, S. Shekhar and H. K. Sharma

Publisher: SLIET Longowal

Publication year: 2026

Publication date: 2026-10-02

ISBN: 978-81-990304-2-8 (e-book); 978-81-990304-3-5 (hardback)

Chapter pages: 57–68

DOI: To be added after DOI registration.

Abstract

The Indian state of Mizoram is in a special geographical position, sharing two international boundaries with Myanmar and Bangladesh. Currently, prospective trade routes and tourism have necessitated urgent technological upgradation towards commercialization of the locally grown produce of this forest-clad state. Mizoram’s natural conditions support a wide diversity of banana and plantain species that have played a key role in ensuring the health, nutritional, and economic security of local tribal populations. Till date, fourteen banana species belonging to Musa L. and Ensete Bruce ex Horan. species have been formally identified and reported from the state. Latest improvements in technological know-how have enabled the local small-scale processors to commercialize value-added products in packaged or ready-to-serve forms. However, the traditional practices of consuming the edible pseudostem, flowers, and inflorescence have yet to be scientifically explored, given recent global research and developments in other banana-producing zones in India and worldwide. Local ethno-medicinal knowledge systems also suggest using banana fruits to treat anaemia, hypertension, diarrhoea, burns, wounds, and stomach ulcers, and pseudostem juice for kidney problems. In addition, the stem layers and leaves have several other traditional uses, such as packaging material for fermented and aquatic foods, water-resistant roofing, and biodegradable cutlery. This paper briefly reviews the current research status and future opportunities for research on Mizoram’s banana resource.

Keywords: Tribal knowledge; Organic; Product development; Technology upscaling; Antioxidant

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