Mangoes are back in season for summer

About The Mango...

The mango originated in Southeast Asia where it has been grown for over 4,000 years. Over the years mango groves have spread to many parts of the tropical and sub-tropical world, where the climate allows the mango to grow best. Mango trees are evergreens that will grow to 60 feet tall. The mango tree will fruit 4 to 6 years after planting. Mango trees require hot, dry periods to set and produce a good crop.

Today there are over 1,000 different varieties of mangos throughout the world.

Mango Nutrition Information.

Mangos are very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. They're also a good source of Dietary Fiber and Vitamin B6,and a very good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C.
For those who are physically active, whether working out or constantly on the go, mangos are a great way to replenish that lost potassium.
An average sized mango can contain up to 40% of your daily fiber requirement. If you are eating your mango-a-day, irregularity is not a problem for you! Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against degenerative diseases, especially with regards to the heart; may help prevent certain types of cancer, as well as lowering blood cholesterol levels.
Beyond being delicious and rich in vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants, mangos contain an enzyme with stomach soothing properties similar to papain found in papayas. These comforting enzymes act as a digestive aid and can be held partially responsible for that feeling of contentment we experience during and after our daily mango ritual!

Selecting Mangoes

Good-quality Mangoes will yield slightly to gentle pressure when ripe. The colouring will be deep red and/or rich yellow with only a blush of green at the most. (Very green mangoes are used in certain dishes) Medium to large mangoes are generally best. A ripe mango will smell fairly fruity on the stem end as long as it is not cold

Storing Mangoes

The ideal post harvest storage temperature for mangos is 55º F. When stored properly a mango should have a shelf life of 1 to 2 weeks. We have found that the best way to ripen a mango is at room temperature, on the kitchen counter and if you wish to accelerate the process place in a paper bag overnight.

Mango on line special!
Buy 2 for $2.00

Culture And Religion

Mangoes also have an important role in culture and religion. The people of Latin America eat mangoes as people in Western countries eat apples, and consider the fruit a healthy staple. While in season, cubed mangoes are served every morning for breakfast and “mango licuado”, a mango shake, offers refreshing relief from steamy temperatures. Jamaicans refer to their loved one as their “sweet juicy mango”.

India considers the mango its national fruit, and a divine one at that. They use mangoes in magic and rituals, in riddles and proverbs, in medicine, in religion, and they have mango festivals and use the mango tree in weddings. Ancient Indian sages prescribed planting the mango for the salvation of souls, and the mango plays a role in Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism and Animism religions.