Many people are surprised to learn that Crack Seed isn't just one snack! It's a whole category of preserved fruits that have been enjoyed in Hawaii for generations. Here's what Crack Seed is, why it's called Crack Seed, and some of the most popular varieties to try.

Quick Answer

Crack Seed is a collection of preserved fruits, most commonly plums, apricots, mangoes, olives, and lemons, that are dried, salted, sweetened, or flavored. Although the name comes from the practice of cracking open fruit pits to eat the seed inside, today "Crack Seed" refers to many different preserved fruit snacks enjoyed throughout Hawaii.

At The Beef Jerky Store, we carry a wide selection of traditional Crack Seed, Li Hing Mui, lemon peel, preserved plums, and other local favorites.

Why Is It Called Crack Seed?

The name "Crack Seed" comes from an older tradition where preserved fruits, especially plums, were cracked open so the seed inside could be eaten.

Over time, the name stuck, even though many modern Crack Seed snacks don't involve cracking a seed at all. Today, the term refers to a wide variety of preserved fruit snacks that are sweet, salty, sour, or tangy.

Popular Types of Crack Seed

There are many different kinds of Crack Seed, each with its own flavor and texture.

Some of the most popular include:

• Li Hing Mui
• Sweet or Salted Ume
• Lemon Peel
• Preserved Olives

Whether you prefer something sweet, salty, sour, or a mix of all three, there's a Crack Seed variety for everyone.

Is Li Hing Mui Crack Seed?

Yes. Li Hing Mui is considered one of the most popular varieties of Crack Seed.

While many people recognize Li Hing Mui for its famous powder, traditional Li Hing Mui preserved plums are also part of Hawaii's Crack Seed tradition.

Which Crack Seed Should You Try?

If you're new to Crack Seed, these are great places to start:

• Sweet & Tangy: Li Hing Mui
• Sweet: Sweet Whole Seed
• Salty: Rock Salt Ume
• Citrusy: Lemon Ball
• Traditional: Crack Seed

Trying a few different varieties is the best way to discover your favorite.

Shop Our Crack Seed Favorites

From traditional preserved plums to lemon peel and Li Hing Mui, explore one of the largest selections of Crack Seed favorites at The Beef Jerky Store.