Mangoes aren’t just a fruit in India; they’re woven into our summer tapestry. Yet among these, the Alphonso mango claims the throne, beloved for its historical roots and unmatched taste.
1. The Special Saga of Alphonso Mangoes
The Alphonso mango was born from a twist of fate, named after Afonso de Albuquerque, a Portuguese general who helped establish colonies in India. His fleet, laden with Brazilian mangoes, arrived in Goa, unknowingly carrying seeds that would give rise to a unique hybrid. The distinctive soil composition of Konkan—acidic, iron-rich, and rocky—combined with the salty Arabian Sea air, led to the creation of the luscious Alphonso mango. These factors are so critical that Alphonsos from elsewhere just don’t compare. They are awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, akin to Champagne from France as they owe their exceptional taste to the region’s distinctive soil and climatic conditions. Not only do they boast an unrivaled taste, but their low moisture content translates into a longer shelf life. Over time, these king of mangoes grow sweeter and their fragrance intensifies, lasting more than twice as long as other varieties.
2. The Healthful Powerhouse
Alphonso mangoes are not just about indulgent sweetness; they’re a trove of health benefits. Loaded with vitamin C, they fortify your immune system. Digestive enzymes, potassium, and magnesium within support muscle function and digestive health. And for those mindful of their weight, rejoice—Alphonsos have less than 1% fat and their high water content could help in your weight loss efforts.
3. The Bitter Truth Behind Sweet Mangoes
Despite their allure, the truth about the mango industry can be less than sweet. An estimated 95-98% of Indian market mangoes are cultivated using harmful chemicals. Most worryingly, hormones are commonly injected into trees to expedite fruit bearing, artificially enhancing fruit size for profit.
“From flower budding to harvest, these mangoes are practically marinated in toxins for months”
4. Identifying Safe Mangoes
How can you tell a chemically ripened mango from an organically ripened one? It’s in the details. Chemically ripened mangoes are uniformly yellow and unnaturally flawless. Organic mangoes, on the other hand, showcase a dance of colors—yellow, tinged with green and a hint of red, and they’re softer to the touch.
5. Trust Through Traceability
In the end, the only way to ensure you’re biting into a safe, organic mango is by knowing its source. Transparency is key. At Old Apple Tree Co., our Alphonso mangoes come from farms we’ve personally vetted. As organic farmers ourselves, we only partner with verified growers who are not only educated but also conscious about sustainable practices. Each fruit we offer comes from a place of integrity and care—for both our consumers’ health and the environment.
As another mango season unfurls, make informed choices. Opt for purity, for well-being, for ethical cultivation. Be mango-wise and join us in savoring the true essence of nature with peace of mind, one Alphonso at a time.