MANGO SEED EXPORT

Mango (Mangifera indica Linn) is one of the most important tropical fruits in the world. During processing of mango, by-products such as peels, seeds and kernel are generated. Usually, most fruits have seeds. The mango fruit is not an exception. African wild mango (Irvingia gabonensis) seed also known as kernel is a product of African biodiversity. The major components of mango seed are starch, fat and protein.
Mango seeds are essentially processed abroad. The seeds are widely and extensively traded domestically but also exported to Europe and beyond. Inside the mango seeds are kernels.
Uses of Mango Seeds
The oil of mango seed kernel consist of about 44-48% saturated fatty acids (majority stearic) and 52-56% unsaturated. Mango seed kernels therefore, have a low content of protein but they contain the most of the essential amino acids, with highest values of leucine, valine and lysine. The seed kernels were shown to be a good source of polyphenols, phytosterols as campesterol, sitosterol and tocopherols.
Also, mango seed kernel could be used as a potential source for functional food ingredients, antimicrobial compounds and cosmetic due to its high quality of fat and protein as well as high levels of natural antioxidants. The mango stone obtained after decortication of mango seed can be utilized as adsorbent.
The mango seed kernel is a good source of polyphenols, phytosterols, sitosterol, and tocopherols. Due to the presence of a significant amount of fat, protein and some natural antioxidants it can be used as a valuable ingredient in functional food and is also used in cosmetics. Many researchers have concluded that the oil extracted from the mango seed kernel is safe, nutritious and nontoxic and can be used as an alternative for edible oils.
International Market
There is commercial cultivation of African wild mango trees in southern Nigeria and southern Cameroon. Mango is majorly cultivated in developing countries, and because mangoes are commonly imported from developing countries, finding a reliable supply is one of the major issues to maintain stability in the mango market, so as expected, there is a ready market for its sales in European countries.
In Europe, The Netherlands play a central role in the mango trade. Spain also takes on a more prominent trading role besides their own mango production. Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Portugal and Canada are also have welcoming markets for mango seeds.
In Canada for instance, companies wanting to market finished products that contain Wild African Mango seed as an active ingredient may be granted marketing authorization and permitted the following claim statements for labeling products thus:
- Supports healthy glucose levels, and/or
- Provides antioxidants
- Could serve as a complement to a healthy lifestyle that incorporates a calorie-reduced diet and regular physical activity for individuals involved in a weight management program
- Helps support healthy cholesterol levels/Helps support cardiovascular health by reducing total and LDL cholesterol;
It is of interest to know that the Canadian labeling standards monograph is not new, as at August 2014, there were already 71 licensed NHPs in the Canadian market containing extracts or preparations of African wild mango seed as an active ingredient, there are invariably thousands now. Prior to the establishment of the monograph, the applicant companies submitted their own proposed indications for use based on their own efficacy evidence for their product.
The establishment of a government issued compendial monograph for African wild mango seed paved the way for a much faster and streamlined process for gaining market access in Canada, so also in other countries of the world where Mango is generally exported to.
European Market Composition
Mango imports from developing countries increase every year by around 9 to 13%. This is in contrast to the imports from other non-European suppliers, mainly Israel and the United States, which is much less and does not show growth.
The mango trade depends heavily on countries with tropical climates like Nigeria. The annual growth from developing countries is a positive sign that investors are gradually improving fruit quality and supply reliability.
Tips to Having steady Export Market
Maintain a long-term strategy when supplying the European market. Once you start supplying European clients, it is important to show continuity. To leave a good impression you should continue to show exportable mangoes even when prices are less favourable.
Check regular news updates to see current developments in supply and demand.
Do as you say and be honest about the volume and quality you can offer. Communicate proactively with your buyer whenever you expect quality issues.