The mango is the most consumed fruit in the world. Although in many regions of the world apples and bananas are in first place, in countries such as India, Pakistan and Myanmar, the mango is the absolute leader.

Exceptional diversity

There are over 2000 varieties of mango worldwide, each with unique characteristics. These varieties differ in color, texture, aroma and taste. Particularly popular are, for example, the Alphonso mango, which impresses with its buttery texture and intense sweetness, or the Kesar mango, which is known for its characteristic saffron aroma. The rich variety of mangoes offers an extraordinary and diverse taste experience.

The mango plant, scientifically known as Mangifera indica, is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters high. The flowers of the mango tree are small, yellow-white and arranged in large panicles. The leaves are elongated, dark green and shiny, while the fruit, the mango, varies strongly in color and shape depending on the variety. The fruits contain a large, flat stone and are surrounded by a thick skin on the outside.

The mango belongs to the sumac family (Anacardiaceae) and is known for its deep, widely branched root structure, which makes it resistant to drought.

A tropical delicacy

The mango has its origins in the tropical regions of South East Asia, particularly in modern-day India, Myanmar and Bangladesh. It has been cultivated for over 4,000 years and is still a central fruit in Indian culture and cuisine today. Travelers and traders liked the sweet and juicy taste of mangoes and so, over time, the mango tree spread throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Nowadays, thanks to exports, the mango can also be found in supermarkets in the rest of the world.

Today, India is the largest producer of mangoes, followed by China, Thailand and Mexico. These countries dominate the global market. They are grown in plantations that often cover large areas. Harvest times vary depending on the growing region and variety, but the main season is usually between March and June.

Immune booster from the tree

Mangoes are not only delicious, but also very nutritious. They are rich in vitamin C, vitamin A and various antioxidants. These nutrients promote healthy skin and strengthen the immune system. Mangoes also contain plenty of fiber, which aids digestion, and natural sugars, which provide a quick source of energy.

Mangoes are consumed in many culinary forms: fresh in various degrees of ripeness, in salads, as juice, in smoothies or dried. In Indian cuisine, for example, they are a main ingredient in chutneys, pickles and other dishes.

Fruit of the future?

The mango is adapted to tropical and subtropical climates, which makes it resistant to climate change in certain respects, particularly in relation to high temperatures. Mangoes are drought-resistant to a certain degree. The trees have a deep root system that enables them to draw water from deeper layers of soil. This ability helps them to survive in regions with irregular rainfall or longer periods of drought. However, mango trees require sufficient water during the growth and fruit formation phase in order to achieve optimum yields. Prolonged drought can affect fruit quality and quantity, which is why regular irrigation is necessary in commercial production during such periods to avoid crop failure.

The ‘queen of fruits’

The mango is not only a culinary icon in many countries, but also a cultural symbol. In India, it is known as the “queen of fruits” and plays a central role in festivals and rituals for both Hindus and Buddhists. According to legend, Buddha is said to have taken a break in a mango grove and valued the tree for its longevity, strength and power. As the mango tree is even said to have magical powers, many Indians brush their teeth with mango branches during sacred holidays.

In Thailand and the Philippines, the mango is an integral part of the cuisine and the economy. It is also a pioneer in sustainable cultivation practices and fair trade initiatives. Projects in countries such as Burkina Faso and Mali focus on organic cultivation and fair trade conditions, which not only improves the quality of the mangoes, but also the living conditions of the farmers. In urban contexts, such as in community gardens and urban farming projects, the cultivation of mangoes helps to improve food security and promote sustainable consumption.

Sources

Proplanta: Area under mango cultivation: global development from 1961-2021

Flowers of India: Mango

EineWeltLaden: All about mangoes