The US continues to increase its mango imports. The projections through week 20 (May 20th) estimate a volume of about 38 million boxes to enter the country. Last year, 29 million boxes were imported during the same time frame. If the estimates materialize, the increase would be 31 percent in 2017 over 2016. “Per capita consumption has increased significantly,” says Angela Serna with the National Mango Board. The National Mango Board was created in 2005 and in the past 12 years, consumption has increased from 2.59 pounds per capita to 2.97 pounds.
Significant penetration increase in foodservice
According to Serna, population change in demographics is a major driver of consumption. “As more people with mango knowledge migrate to the US, education and knowledge is spread around the country,” she mentioned. With increased education also comes growing confidence in consuming mangos. The National Mango Board educates consumers on how to select, cut and use mangos. Marketing programs in consumer, retail and foodservice sectors play an important role. Mango import volumes are up from 62 million boxes in 2005 to 109 million boxes in 2016. Mango as an ingredient in the foodservice segment has increased in penetration from 1.9 percent in 2008 to 15.4 percent in 2013.
Mexico is largest supplier in spring
This time of the year, the highest volume is coming from Mexico. The country’s season is picking up with shipments arriving from Chiapas, Oaxaca, Guerrero and Michoacán. Mexico’s volume is followed by Nicaragua and Guatemala. The main mango varieties coming out of these countries are Tommy Atkins (41 percent) and Honey Mangos (40 percent). Haden and Keitt are available as well, although their market shares are lower with 12.4 and 0.85 percent respectively. “Haiti has started its mango season and Madame Francis will gradually make its way to the US,” shared Serna. Total shipment of this variety is estimated to be 2 million boxes for the season. Peru’s main mango production region is currently going through abnormal rains and flooding due to El Niño. Given that the last shipment left the country mid-March, this year’s mango crop escaped the adverse weather.
Contact information:
Angela Serna
National Mango Board
Tel: (407)-629-7318