Why Durian Is Loved and Hated for Its Smell
Durian is a special fruit found in Southeast Asia, also known as the “king of fruits.” It’s famous for its strong smell, creamy texture, and unique taste. While some people absolutely love durian, others can’t stand it. In fact, the smell of durian is so powerful that many hotels, airplanes, and public places ban it. But why does durian cause such strong feelings? Let’s explore why some people adore it while others want nothing to do with it.
What Is Durian?
Durian is shaped like an oval and covered with hard, spiky skin. Inside, it has thick, soft flesh divided into sections, surrounded by large seeds. Its flavor is hard to describe—it’s often referred to as a mix of sweet, savory, creamy, and custard-like. To fans of durian, this combination makes it an unforgettable treat. Many say it’s like eating dessert straight from nature.
But despite its delicious taste, durian is famous for one thing above all else: its smell. The scent is so strong that it can be smelled from far away—and not everyone finds it pleasant.
Why Durian Smells So Strong
The intense smell of durian comes from the hundreds of different chemicals in its flesh. Scientists have studied durian, and they found that a single durian can release more than 50 different odors at the same time. Some of these smells are sweet, like honey or fruit, while others are stronger and smell like onions, garlic, or even rotten eggs.
This mix of scents can be overwhelming for your nose. For people who love durian, the smell is part of its charm. They believe it makes the fruit more exciting and unique. But for others, the smell is just too much to handle, and they find it unpleasant or disgusting.
Why Some People Love Durian
Fans of durian often describe it as one of the best fruits in the world. They say the creamy, rich texture and sweet taste make it worth the smell. To them, the aroma isn’t bad—it’s just part of the experience. In fact, they see the smell as a promise that the fruit is ripe and ready to eat.
Durian also has cultural significance in many Southeast Asian countries. It’s used in desserts, drinks, and even savory dishes. For people who grew up eating durian, the smell brings back happy memories of shared meals with family and friends. It’s not just a fruit—it’s a connection to home and tradition.
Additionally, durian is packed with nutrients. It’s high in vitamins, minerals, and energy, making it a popular choice for a healthy snack. People who love durian often say it’s worth the smell because the flavor and health benefits are unmatched.
Why Some People Hate Durian
On the other hand, not everyone enjoys durian. For some people, the smell is unbearable and reminds them of garbage, sewage, or rotten food. Those who dislike durian often feel that the strong scent overpowers everything else and makes it hard to focus on the taste.
The smell of durian can stick to your hands, clothes, and even the air around you. This is why many hotels, public transportation systems, and airlines don’t allow it. For people who dislike durian, even being near the fruit can be an uncomfortable experience.
Another reason some people dislike durian is personal preference. Just like some people don’t like certain vegetables or spices, not everyone will enjoy the taste of durian. While fans describe it as sweet and creamy, others find it too rich or strange for their liking.
A Fruit That Divides Opinions
The love-or-hate reaction to durian is often exaggerated because of how strong the smell is. People who try it for the first time usually have powerful feelings—either they can’t get enough of it, or they never want to touch it again. This makes durian one of the most talked-about fruits in the world.
Interestingly, some people start out hating durian and later grow to love it. This happens when they get used to the smell and learn to appreciate the taste. Others, however, remain committed to avoiding it completely. Either way, durian has a unique ability to make an impression.
Should You Try Durian?
If you’ve never tried durian, it might feel intimidating because of its smell and reputation. But many people say it’s worth giving the fruit a chance. You might surprise yourself and become one of its fans!
Eating durian is not just about taste—it’s an adventure. From its spiky skin to its bold aroma, durian is unlike any other fruit. Whether you love it or hate it, durian will leave you with a story to tell.
Conclusion
Durian is a fruit of contrasts. Its strong smell makes it famous and controversial. For some, the aroma adds to the fruit’s charm and uniqueness, while for others, it’s a deal-breaker. Whether you’re a fan of durian or firmly against it, one thing is certain: durian will always stand out as one of the most unforgettable fruits in the world. If you ever get the chance to try it, be brave—who knows, you might just fall in love with the “king of fruits.”
