Right now, mango trees across the country are bearing fruit and brightening up the horizon as far as the eye can see. The good news is that our local mango season runs from December until April, so there’s still time for you to savour their sweet and juicy goodness.
 
Mangoes have been grown in South Africa for more than 100 years and in that time, have become so popular that we now produce a massive 75 000 tons annually, while the local market devours 20 000 tons of fresh fruit a year (this excludes the annual local consumption of 20 000 tons of juice, 15 000 tons of achar and 10 000 tons of dried fruit)!
 
Humans have been consuming mangoes for more than 6 000 years, having originated in north eastern India and north western Myanmar and Bangladesh and later spreading to the rest of Asia. Buddhist monks took mango plants on voyages to Malaya and eastern Asia as early as the 4th and 5th century BC and by the 10th century AD; Persian traders had taken mangoes to the Middle East and East Africa. They later spread to South America, the Philippines and West Africa and are now cultivated commercially throughout tropical and subtropical areas.
 
In some countries, mangoes are used to treat a variety of diseases and conditions possibly because this delicious fruit contains 20 different vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Potassium, Copper and Vitamin A. They are also high in beta-carotene which may help slow the aging process, reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer, improve lung function, and reduce complications associated with diabetes.
 
And if you’re watching your weight this summer, mangoes are an incredibly healthy snack given that you can eat the entire fruit for just over 100 calories and they’re virtually fat-free. Mangoes are also rich in fibre which is important for weight loss and maintenance, healthy bowel movements and colon health.
 
 
Best of all, once summer comes to an end, you’ll be happy to know that you can still enjoy mangoes in the form of juice, dried or canned mango. They’re also really versatile and add a touch of the exotic to so many meals. Whip up a creamy mango ice cream or if you’re on a health kick a mango & prawn salad. Spice up curries with a tasty mango salsa and don’t forget to add dried mango to your children’s lunch boxes too.

For exciting mango recipes check out our recipe section or visit the South African Mango Grower’s Association (SAMGA ) website for more information.