Why Bengal’s Famous Himsagar Mangoes May Not Be Exported To USA This Year?

Himsagar is a premium mango variety native to West Bengal. These mangoes are known for their incomparable sweetness, buttery texture, and intense aroma. Every year, these mangoes are exported overseas, but this year, the fruit has hit a rough patch. A weather-induced problem has made the export of Himsagar mangoes overseas uncertain.

Bad Weather Causes Dark Spots To Appear On Himsagar Mangoes

Himsagar mangoes are exported every year to markets in the USA and UK, but this year, luck is not on the side of exporters. According to The Times of India, Malda’s famed Himsagar mangoes have developed dark spots due to a weather-induced disease. This has made their export uncertain this season. Exporters believe that a major portion of the fruit may no longer meet overseas quality standards.

Now, you might be wondering about the cause of the dark spots on these prized mangoes. The issue is attributed to continuous rainfall during the bagging stage of cultivation, followed by periods of high temperatures. These unfavourable conditions led to the appearance of dark spots on the mango skin, which are considered early signs of infection. These mangoes are known for their perfectly smooth skin and reddish-orange blush. The dark spots on them will definitely impact exports.

Also Read: Japan Does Not Want Indian Mangoes But London Is Going Crazy Over Gujarat’s Kesar Mango; Here’s Why

What Is Bagging?

For the uninitiated, bagging is a process in which each fruit is covered with a protective bag while still on the tree. This is a common practice used to improve the appearance of mangoes and minimise damage from pests and diseases. According to The Times of India, exporters have tried to tackle the problem of dark spots on Himsagar mangoes, but the attempts have not yielded positive results.

This is why many Himsagar mangoes are now unsuitable for export markets and organised retail chains. According to PTI, exporters were supposed to send the first consignment of mangoes to the US this week, but they could not do so because of the dark spots.

Fortunately, only 15% of the bagged fruits are facing this problem. Nearly three lakh more bagged mangoes are still available and can be exported. This shows how bad weather can significantly affect the quality of produce during mango season, a time that is crucial for exporters.

Also Read: Odisha Farmer Grows Miyazaki Mangoes Worth ₹3 Lakh Per Kg; Sleeps Near Tree To Prevent Theft

Have you ever eaten Himsagar mangoes?

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Suprabhat Dutta