Lewey Hook, the technical director at SHP Tropical, gives FPJ a brief round-up of some of the key developments affecting mango supply to the UK
What are the key challenges facing UK mango suppliers at the moment?
Lots of demand and not enough of the right supply.
How has the growing season gone in your key source regions?
Peru has had another ‘abnormal’ season, with low volumes until the end. Then the Ivory Coast campaign started early.
How has recent disruption to shipping affected mango supply?
Mango is better sold fresh and delays that are now part of the day-to-day management of our sector are not helping drive repeat sales from consumers.
How is El Niño likely to affect mango production this year?
El Niño could affect flowering this year, which will probably hit smaller growers rather than bigger operations with the resources to manipulate their crops.
How are fruit fly and other pests affecting affecting mango supply to the Britain?
High levels of fruit fly have ruled out supply from Mali to Europe for the foreseeable future. Mali also has many other political issues to deal with at the moment, so mango exports to Europe may be low on the list. This is placing more demand on the Ivory Coast and the start of the Dominican Republic season.
Which mango varieties are growing in popularity at UK retail?
Palmer from Brazil stays on the retail shelf as a variety that has resilience when other countries cannot fulfil demand. It has strong drought resistance and can manage cooler conditions, as well as warm climates.
Which countries are expanding their mango plantings and in which varieties?
Brazil is expanding its plantings of Palmer, and to a lesser extent, Keitt. Brazilian growers benefit from Palmer’s resilience and flexibility.
