Mangoes capturing space in capital’s fruit markets

Mangoes popularly known as the ‘King of Fruits’ have started capturing space in the fruit markets of capital with its different varieties.

Mangoes usually arrive  in the markets during the month of May and this delicious summer fruit is liked by the people of all ages.

Pakistan is an important mango growing country in the world as soil and climatic conditions here are highly suitable for mango growth.

Talking to APP, Azam Khan, a vendor said, “different varieties of Mangoes have although arrived in the markets but still these are not fully ripen and little sour in taste”.

He said Mangoes would be more sweet in taste after 10 to 15 days. The Mangoes would ripe further as the weather turns hot, he added.

He said the price of one kilograms Mangoes ranges from Rs 120 to 150 depending on the variety.

Saeed Abbasi, another vendor at Abpara market said that mango of Pakistan was well known for its taste and quality abroad.

Langra, Dusehri, Samar Behisht, Chaunsa, Anwar Rator are famous varieties which are grown in Punjab. While Sindhri, Bagan Pali, Suwarneka, Neelum and Gulab Khas are leading ones from Sindh.

Mango varieties have been known for attractive colours, savouring fragrance, taste and high nutritive value.

Mango fruits contain 10-20% sugar, an important source of vitamin A, B and C and small amount of Protein, Iron, Calcium and Phosphorus.

Ripe mangoes are mainly eaten fresh, but they are also utilized in preparing squashes, jams and other preserves.

Unriped mangoes are used for making pickles.

The annual estimated world production of mango is over 25-million tones. Pakistan produces 3.95 percent world’s mangoes being the fourth largest producer. Its export is progressing resulting into substantial foreign exchange earnings.

Pakistani mangoes are usually exported to Middle East besides, there is also demand for it in Malaysia, Indonesia, Canada and Iran.