RP mangoes to undergo makeover

In a bid to increase the global competitiveness of the national fruit, the Philippine mango will undergo “innovative packaging” and boost its exposure in international trade fairs.

The Department of Science and Technology’s Packaging Research and Development Center is working on the structure and graphic design of mango product packages.

The DOST-funded project is a component of the science and technology anchor program for mango coordinated by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development, an attached agency of the DOST.

“The project aims to enhance global competitiveness of fresh mango and mango products through the development of sustainable and world-class packaging technology and participation in international trade fairs,” the DOST said. “Aside from making mango products attractive to consumers, the packaging design also prolongs shelf life.”

Various mango products went through packaging innovations, like dried mango in stand-up pouch, mango tart in pouch, and mango twirl and roll in pillow pack.

The DOST said application of high barrier films and suitable packaging systems extended shelf life of the products. New looks and competitive packaging designs integrated with mandatory labeling requirements have been developed for spicy burong mangga, mango rachada, mango chutney, mango puree/concentrate/juice, and mango tart.

Launching and promotion of the products in new packaging are made through participation in local and international trade fairs and exhibitions. In 2003, a number of mango products were launched during the Asian Ethnic Food Festival in Manila.

Mango rachada, dried mango, and mango tart were introduced in Shanghai, China during the Philippine Solo Exhibition. Mango tart and spicy burong mangga were also introduced during the Seoul International Food Exhibition in South Korea to tap the Korean market, it said.

The Philippines is famous for its delicious “carabao” mango, better known as “Philippine super mango” in export markets, the DOST said.

Mango, the Philippine national fruit, is the third most important fruit crop of the country based on export volume and value, next to banana and pineapple, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA).                – Helen Flores