The aromatic allure of Kesar mangoes from India is now captivating consumers in select Seattle stores, marking a significant milestone in the availability of diverse Indian mango varieties within the Greater Seattle area. This development follows a year-long initiative spearheaded by the Indian Consulate General in Seattle, aimed at introducing and establishing Indian mangoes in mainstream retail chains such as Costco.
The journey of Indian mangoes to the United States began in 2006 when the then US President George W Bush authorized their import, a decision that mirrored the enthusiasm surrounding the India-US civil nuclear agreement. This initial breakthrough paved the way for future expansions and wider accessibility of the fruit across the American market. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, the current expansion into Seattle retail chains represents a substantial step forward in making these coveted mango varieties more readily available to a broader consumer base.
India’s Consul General in Seattle, Prakash Gupta, recently highlighted the arrival of Indian mangoes during a segment on Fox 13 News’ “Good Day Seattle.” Gupta showcased an assortment of mango varieties and offered tastings, emphasizing the Consulate’s dedication to promoting these fruits within the region. He indicated (Gupta said) that Indian mangoes are already available in local Indian grocery stores, and larger retailers such as Costco outlets in Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, and the wider Seattle region are expected to stock them by the end of the week.
Gupta detailed the Consulate’s extensive efforts over the past year, directed towards familiarizing local residents with the diverse range of Indian mangoes. These efforts included organizing tasting events that presented premium varieties like Dasheri, Chausa, Kesar, and Langra to local consumers and distributors. The aim was to introduce the unique flavors and qualities of these mangoes to potential buyers. Following these initial tasting sessions, the Consulate actively collaborated with local grocery stores, delivery services, and major US retailers to facilitate further tastings and gauge local interest.
(Gupta stated) that he is pleased to announce that their year-long efforts have yielded results, with Indian mangoes, starting with the Kesar variety, now available in Seattle. The United States had previously prohibited mango imports from India due to concerns regarding the mango seed weevil, a pest that is not native to North America. A resolution was reached in January 2006 when the Agriculture Department approved the import of produce treated with low doses of irradiation.
This decision cleared the path for the first shipment of Indian Alfonso mangoes, which were met with considerable enthusiasm and presented to the then US Trade Representative Susan Schwab. Currently, a three-kilogram box of Kesar mangoes is priced at USD 50 plus taxes on online platforms, offering consumers a convenient option to purchase these sought-after fruits. The introduction of Indian mangoes into Seattle retail chains signifies not only a triumph of diplomatic and agricultural initiatives but also a welcome addition to the culinary landscape of the region.
The availability of these mangoes promises to enrich the options for consumers and introduce new flavors to the local market, while also strengthening trade relations between India and the United States. The successful integration of Indian mangoes into the Seattle retail sector serves as a model for future collaborations and expansions of agricultural trade between the two nations, potentially opening doors for other unique Indian produce to find their way to American consumers.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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