Papaya popular amongst dieting Russian 'jetset'

Papaya's are a relatively new fruit to the Russian market and are not typically purchased by the general consumer. When speaking to a representative at one of Russia's largest wholesale markets, only two traders out of 5,000 sell the fruit.

Considered an exotic fruit, primarily sold to hotels and restaurants, the orange fleshed fruit cannot compete on the Russian market against the more traditional fruits such as apples, cherries, strawberries and other berries. However, a source has said that the influx of foreigners into larger cities such as Moscow, has brought increased demand for the fruit.

Health conscious women from the dieting Russia jetset who do not mind paying a bit extra for the luxury item, are also causing increased demand. High in fibre, folate, and vitamins A and C, along with being low in calories, has made it a popular choice for those wanting to lose weight. With a price tag of 400 rubles per kilo ($6.15 USD), compared to 50 rubles per kilo for apples ($0.77 USD), it is not an everyday item for the average consumer.

When speaking to one of the importers at the market, they confirmed that their papaya's are imported exclusively from Thailand and are the orange fleshed "Holland" variety.