Macadamia nut production represents a niche opportunity in Mexico, specifically for Puebla and its coffee-growing region, because of its terrain, climate, and the height of several municipalities, such as Huauchinango, Tlapacoya, Xicotepec, and Zihuateutla.
According to a statement from the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA), macadamia nut is a healthy food from Australia.
Macadamia nut is one of the main options in consideration for the productive reconversion of coffee growing areas, which would allow this region to improve their income.
This nut is being promoted in the coffee sector, which is facing some production issues because of the rust plague, in order to harness its productive potential and market opportunities
The state of Puebla is the second largest producer of macadamia nuts in the country with a production value of nearly 11,200 pesos per ton and 543 hectares devoted to this crop in the state.
The biggest consumers of macadamia nuts are of Asian origin and live in Mexico or in the United States. Macadamia crops can be a profitable production and the government is seeking to promote it via agricultural policy.
The macadamia is a highly coveted fruit and it is considered a gourmet nut. It has a delicate sweet flavor and it is widely used in cooking, especially in baking.
Additionally, the cosmetics industry is also a major user of this fruit, because of its oil content and quality.
As it is very rich in oleic omega 9 acid, macadamia nut stimulates weight loss, helps fight diabetes, reduces the risk of heart disease, stimulates the immune system, helps digesting foods, and has antioxidant effects, among others things.
Source: Notimex