Summer is the season of mangoes, and markets are filled with a variety of juicy, delicious fruits. Whether you enjoy mangoes as they are, blend them into shakes, or add them to salads, it's important to make sure you're buying naturally ripened fruit. Some mangoes are artificially ripened using chemicals, which can affect their taste, texture, and quality.
Here are a few simple ways to identify whether a mango has been naturally ripened or chemically treated.
1. Try the water test
One of the easiest methods is the water test. Fill a bowl with water and place the mango in it. Naturally ripened mangoes usually sink. Mangoes that have been artificially ripened may float.
While this isn't a foolproof method, it can be a useful indicator when checking your mangoes at home.
2. Look closely at the skin colour
The colour of the mango can reveal a lot about how it was ripened.
Artificially ripened mangoes often have uneven colouring, with green patches remaining on the skin even though the fruit appears ripe. Naturally ripened mangoes, on the other hand, tend to have a more uniform colour across the surface.
3. Check the texture
Gently press the mango with your fingers. A naturally ripened mango will feel slightly soft and evenly firm.
An artificially ripened mango may feel soft in some areas and hard in others. An uneven texture is often a sign that the fruit has not ripened naturally.
4. Pay attention to the smell and taste
Naturally ripened mangoes have a sweet, fruity aroma that is easy to recognize.
Mangoes ripened using chemicals may have little to no natural fragrance. In some cases, they may even have a chemical-like smell. Some people also report a slight burning or tingling sensation in the mouth after eating artificially ripened fruit.
5. Notice the juice content
When you cut open a ripe mango, it should be juicy and flavourful.
Naturally ripened mangoes generally contain plenty of juice, while artificially ripened ones may appear drier and less succulent. A lack of juice can be another clue that the fruit was not ripened naturally.
General tips before buying mangoes
When buying mangoes, don't rely on appearance alone. Check the colour, texture, aroma, and overall feel of the fruit. These simple observations can help you choose naturally ripened mangoes that are sweeter, juicier, and more enjoyable to eat.
