The University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (UASD), has introduced a mechanism to can mango pulp, allowing for year-round consumption. This unit processes all mango varieties and stores the pulp in cans, preserving it for up to two years. The pulp can be used to prepare seekarane, juice, jam, milkshake, ice cream, and chocolates. This initiative is expected to benefit growers by addressing challenges such as price crashes, ripening issues, and disposal of damaged but edible fruits.
Processing Details
Prof S Hemalatha, head of the department of food science and nutrition at UASD, stated that the university has processed 10 quintals of mangoes, yielding 4 quintals of pulp. “We put fruits in the pulper, where the peel and seeds are separated. They are then boiled at the recommended temperature. After pasteurisation, the pulp is value-added and filled into cans. Growers receive these sealed cans with food safety certification on payment of a fixed price. They can sell it in the market or use it for themselves. This pulp can be stored for two years,” she explained.
Benefits for Growers
She added, “Sometimes, fruits develop black spots on the peel but remain good inside. Though edible, consumers hesitate to buy them. In such situations, this process helps growers. We check the quality and accept fruits for processing. If the fruit is not good, we do not process it. There is a myth that only large quantities can be processed. However, we serve growers even if they bring 25 kg of produce. We plan to enhance mango processing next year.”
Dharwad Mango and Export
It is noteworthy that the Dharwad mango was selected under the Union government’s ‘One District One Crop’ scheme. The district cultivates mango across 13,000 hectares. While Alphonso or Aapus is a major variety, the district also grows around 70 varieties, including Mallika, Neelam, Totapuri, Neelgoa, and Bombay Green. Dharwad exports mangoes to the Middle East, Europe, Australia, Singapore, and the United States.
Growers' Perspective
Subhash Akalwadi, president of the Dharwad District Mango Growers’ Association, said pulp canning has helped growers during price drops, ripening challenges, and other issues. “A fee of Rs 60 is charged per 850gm can. We can sell a can for Rs 150–200. We processed 60kg of mango here and sold it among our contacts. Apart from pulp canning, the varsity has also trained women in making jam, chutney, ice cream, juice, and sweets. The initiative is helping growers maintain financial sustainability,” he added.
