It seems that the mango, referred to as the “King of Fruits,” is fit to be consumed only by the king, given the price it commands in the market today. Goa’s GI-tagged Mankurad mango is reportedly fetching vendors a handsome Rs. 500 per piece as the first crop of this season begins arriving in local markets. At some places, the fruit is even sold at Rs. 7,500 per dozen. However, the price the fruit commands also depends on its size. Even this could be beyond the reach of the common man.
The question that arises is whether the Mankurad mangoes are being exported to foreign countries, where they are in demand as the fruit is now GI-tagged. By the end of March and through April, large quantities will be harvested and will flood the markets, and prices will drop. However, this will raise the question of whether mangoes are artificially ripened. Artificial ripening of mangoes is done using chemicals like calcium carbide or ethylene gas. While these methods can speed up the ripening process, they can also be harmful to human health.
Mangoes ripened artificially often have a bland taste and a bitter aftertaste, while naturally ripened mangoes boast a sweet and pleasant flavour without any bitterness. A naturally ripened one will sink when put in a bucket of water, while the artificially ripened mango will float. If the mangoes have bruises or spots, it might be due to the injection of chemicals. The authorities concerned need to keep a vigil on whether artificially ripened mangoes are being sold.
