Introduction Of Mango:

Mangifera indica (Scientific Name of Mango) is a succulent and tropical fruit of the Indian subcontinent. Although it is native to South Asia, it is known as the most cultivated fruit in the world. Mango is the national fruit of 3 countries of the world (India, Pakistan, Philippines). Even there is also Guinness World Record of Heaviest Mango. ( 4.25 kg in Guayata, 3 May 2021)

Production Of Mango:

India is the largest mango producer in the world. Although mango is produced in all the districts of Bangladesh, Chapai Nababganj is the best in mango production and about 25% of the total mango of our country is produced in this region. Mango is also being produced commercially in at least 23 districts of the country. Especially good quality of mangoes are also grown in Naogaon, Satkhira, Kushtia, Rangamati. At present Bangladesh ranks 7th position in mango production.

Color and taste:

There are about 35 varieties of mango in the world and they are different in tastes. Chlorophyll is responsible for the green color of raw mango and the presence of various organic acids in raw mango makes it sour. But when the mango ripens, the chlorophyll in the raw mango changes to xanthophyll through chemical changes and turns yellow. The organic acids in raw mangoes are converted into glucose and fructose by chemical changes, resulting in ripe mangoes being sweet. Some people like raw mangoes where others like ripe mangoes. But mango is more or less preferred by everyone.

Nutritional value:

A medium size mango contains- Calories – 202 Proteins- 3 grams Carbohydrates- 50 grams Fiber – 5 grams Sugar – 45 grams (Source: WebMD) Mango is also a good source of vitamins A, C, B6, iron, magnesium, potassium and folate. According to nutritionists, both raw and ripe mangoes are highly nutritious.

Benefits:

Raw mango

• Contain plenty of vitamin C
• Reduce acidity
• Reduce body weight
• Eliminate liver problems
• Prevents itching
• Eliminate constipation
• Eliminate salt deficiency in the body
• Brighten hair and skin as it has a lot of antioxidants
• Keep the body cool
• ** Caution: There is a risk of diarrhea if you eat too much raw mango. Raw mango streaks can cause mouth, throat and stomach infections.

Ripe mango–

• Make up for vitamin deficiencies
• Increase immunity
• Regulate cholesterol levels
• Maintain good eye health
• Increase digestive energy
• Acts as a substitute for sugar
• Destroy cancer cells
• Increase body strength
• Prevents anemia and scurvy
• ** Caution: Consuming excess amount of ripe mangoes increases glucose levels in the body, asthma, body weight, causes diarrhea and is harmful for kidney patients.

Fauzia Afrin Aurin

Student of Agriculture at Bangladesh Agricultural University.