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Alphonso Mango – The King of Mangoes from Maharashtra

1. Name & Origin

The Alphonso Mango, popularly known as Hapus in Maharashtra, is one of the most sought-after mango varieties in the world. It is cultivated primarily in the Konkan region, including Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, Palghar, Thane, and Raigad districts. This mango is renowned for its smooth texture, vibrant saffron-yellow color, rich aroma, and sweet taste.

The Alphonso mango is named after Afonso de Albuquerque, a Portuguese general who introduced grafting techniques to India in the 16th century. The unique volcanic red soil and coastal climate of Konkan contribute to its distinct taste, which cannot be replicated elsewhere.

To protect its authenticity and global reputation, the Geographical Indication (GI) tag was granted to Alphonso mangoes from Maharashtra on October 3, 2018. This ensures that only mangoes grown in these designated regions can be marketed as Alphonso mangoes.

Image Credit: Nurserylive.
Image Credit: Nurserylive.

2. Unique Features

Alphonso mangoes stand out due to their exceptional quality, flavor, and natural growing conditions.

Key Features:

  • Thin Skin & Thick Pulp – Unlike other mangoes, Alphonso has a thin outer peel and a rich, creamy pulp with no fiber.

  • Intense Aroma – The fruit has a strong, pleasant fragrance, distinguishing it from other mango varieties.

  • Saffron-Yellow Color – Ripe Alphonso mangoes turn a deep golden hue with a slight reddish tint.

  • Sweet & Buttery Flavor – The mango has a perfect balance of sweetness and slight acidity, making it a global favorite.

  • Naturally Ripened – Traditionally, Alphonso mangoes are ripened using hay or rice straw, avoiding artificial chemicals.

  • Export-Ready Variety – Due to its long shelf life and robust texture, Alphonso mangoes are ideal for international markets.



3. Making Process – From Farm to Market

The cultivation of Alphonso mangoes follows a meticulous process to maintain their premium quality:

Step 1: Cultivation & Climate Requirements

  • Alphonso mangoes are grown in the tropical coastal belt of Maharashtra, where moderate rainfall, humidity, and well-drained red soil enhance their flavor.

  • The trees are pruned and grafted, ensuring superior fruit quality.

Step 2: Harvesting

  • The mangoes are handpicked when mature, usually between April and June.

  • Farmers use traditional techniques to avoid damaging the fruit.

Step 3: Natural Ripening & Sorting

  • The mangoes are ripened using natural methods, such as storing them in hay stacks.

  • They are then graded based on size, color, and quality before being packed for sale.

Step 4: Export Preparation

  • The mangoes undergo quality checks, irradiation, and certification before being shipped to international markets, including Japan, Korea, the USA, and Europe.


Image Credit: The Economic Times.
Image Credit: The Economic Times.


4. Impact of GI (Geographical Indication) Status

The GI tag has played a crucial role in protecting and promoting Alphonso mangoes both in domestic and international markets.


Economic Impact - The GI tag has boosted exports, especially to high-demand markets like the USA and Australia. Farmers earn premium prices for authentic GI-certified Alphonso mangoes, reducing competition from counterfeit products. The Alphonso mango’s GI status has strengthened its global reputation, making it a luxury fruit.


Sustainability Impact - The GI certification encourages natural ripening and organic farming practices. The GI tag ensures that only authentic Alphonso mangoes are sold under its name, preventing market dilution. Farmers receive better market access and fairer prices, improving rural livelihoods.



5. How to Identify Authentic Alphonso Mangoes

GI Tag Certification – Genuine Alphonso mangoes are labeled with a GI tag, ensuring authenticity.

Rich Aroma & Saffron Hue – The strong fragrance and deep yellow skin with a red blush distinguish real Alphonso mangoes.

Non-Fibrous Texture – Authentic Alphonso mangoes have a buttery, smooth pulp with no fibrous strands.

Natural Ripening Marks – Look for uneven ripening spots—a sign of chemical-free ripening.

Source of Purchase – Ensure the mangoes come from Ratnagiri, Sindhudurg, or other GI-approved districts.



6. Challenges

Despite its premium status, Alphonso mango cultivation and marketing face several challenges:

  • Imitation & Counterfeit Mangoes – Mangoes from non-GI regions are falsely sold as Alphonso, misleading consumers.

  • Strict Export Regulations – Countries like the USA and Europe impose stringent phytosanitary measures, increasing costs for exporters.

  • Climate Change Impact – Unseasonal rains and temperature fluctuations affect yield and quality.

  • High Production Costs – Organic farming, natural ripening, and export certifications make authentic Alphonso mangoes expensive.

  • Limited Shelf Life – Due to its delicate texture, Alphonso mangoes have a shorter shelf life, making long-distance exports challenging.


7. Fun Facts

  • The Alphonso mango was included in the "Top 100 Foods to Eat Before You Die" list!

  • The Prime Minister of India gifted Alphonso mangoes to world leaders at the G20 Summit.

  • Before World War II, Alphonso mangoes were a prized export to Goa and Portuguese colonies.

  • Alphonso mangoes have a unique GI-tagged QR code for buyers to verify authenticity.

  • It is one of the most expensive mango varieties in the world, selling for ₹500-₹1,000 per kg!



References:

  1. The Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act 1999 (India)

  2. Ministry of Commerce & Industry, ‘GI Tag for Alphonso from Konkan’ (Press Information Bureau, 5 October 2018) https://pib.gov.in accessed 24 February 2025

  3. Intellectual Property India, ‘Registered Geographical Indications’ (Government of India, 2018) https://ipindia.gov.in/registered-gls.htm accessed 24 February 2025

  4. ‘What is Alphonso Mango?’ Alphonso Mango (Blog, 2023) https://alphonsomango.in/blogs/health/what-is-alphonso-mango accessed 24 February 2025

  5. ‘Geographical Indication Tag for Alphonso Mango’ Alphonso Mango (2023) https://alphonsomango.in/blogs/why/geographical-indication-tag accessed 24 February 2025

  6. ‘Pride of Maharashtra: The Alphonso Mango’ Devgad Mango (2023) https://devgadmango.com/about-devgad-alphonso-mango accessed 24 February 2025

  7. ‘Alphonso Mango: GI Tag and Its Impact on Export’ Drishti IAS (17 November 2022) https://www.drishtiias.com/daily-updates/daily-news-analysis/patola-sarees-from-gujarataccessed 24 February 2025

  8. ‘APEDA’s Role in Alphonso Mango Exports’ Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) (2022) https://apeda.gov.in/apedawebsite/ accessed 24 February 2025


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