That “
stuck in the throat” feeling you get when eating an unripe wood apple (Limonia acidissima) is mainly due to its high tannin content.
Here’s why it happens:
Astringency → Unripe wood apples are very astringent because they contain a lot of tannins. Tannins bind to proteins in your saliva and mucous membranes, making your mouth and throat feel dry and rough.
Drying effect → This binding reduces lubrication, so food doesn’t slide down as smoothly, giving the sensation that it’s sticking.
Mucosal tightening → Tannins can also slightly contract (tighten) the tissues of your throat lining, adding to that “constricted” or “stuck” feeling.
Low pulp softness → Since the fruit is unripe, its fibers are harder and less juicy, which increases friction when swallowing.
That’s why ripe wood apple, which has less tannin and softer, juicier pulp, doesn’t cause the same problem.

Drinking water or something slightly sweet after eating the unripe fruit can reduce the feeling because it helps wash away or balance the tannins.
Do you want me to also explain why unripe bananas give a similar throat-sticking feeling?