Ranked fifth in worldwide production amongst other fruit crops and often considered the “king of fruits”, the mango is well known for its delicious, succulent taste and many nutritional qualities. It is classified within the genus Mangifera belonging to the Anacardiaceae family which includes the cashew, pistachio, and other edible fruits. The Mangifera species can be found in abundance in the islands of Indonesia, the Malay Peninsula, Indochina, and the Philippines (Litz 2009). In particular, Mangifera indica can trace its roots back to southern Asia. It is a native to eastern India, Burma, and the Andaman Islands of southern Asia, and is believed to have been cultivated for more than 4000 years in the same location (Morton & Dowling 1987).
Mango seeds are recalcitrant meaning they are not able to withstand the effects of drying or freezing temperatures, and can lose viability if stored for long periods of time. Therefore, it was believed that the mango was dispersed to other parts of the world as a ripe fruit, seedling, or a grafted plant by European colonists during the 15th and …show more content…
The mango is commonly eaten as a fresh and ripen fruit, but it not limited to this. Mangoes can also be processed and eaten as jams, juices, dried fruit, and even used as an ingredient in yogurt and ice cream (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development 2016). Although it is known for its taste and flavor, incorporating mangoes in one’s diet can be advantageous for a person’s health. Mangos are low in calories and contain fiber, vitamin A, and folic acid. A serving of mango is only one hundred calories. Fiber reduces chances of heart disease, constipation, and aids in digestion. Supplementary intake of vitamin A promotes bone growth and healthy vision. Pregnant women should consume an adequate amount of folic acid to prevent serious birth defects (Ipatenco
Mango seeds are recalcitrant meaning they are not able to withstand the effects of drying or freezing temperatures, and can lose viability if stored for long periods of time. Therefore, it was believed that the mango was dispersed to other parts of the world as a ripe fruit, seedling, or a grafted plant by European colonists during the 15th and …show more content…
The mango is commonly eaten as a fresh and ripen fruit, but it not limited to this. Mangoes can also be processed and eaten as jams, juices, dried fruit, and even used as an ingredient in yogurt and ice cream (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development 2016). Although it is known for its taste and flavor, incorporating mangoes in one’s diet can be advantageous for a person’s health. Mangos are low in calories and contain fiber, vitamin A, and folic acid. A serving of mango is only one hundred calories. Fiber reduces chances of heart disease, constipation, and aids in digestion. Supplementary intake of vitamin A promotes bone growth and healthy vision. Pregnant women should consume an adequate amount of folic acid to prevent serious birth defects (Ipatenco