New PLU code approved for Francis mango variety

The International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS), the group responsible for setting PLU codes, has approved PLU code 3621 for the Francis mango variety. Retailers, shippers and growers are encouraged to update their systems and label stock immediately so the code can be in use for the 2012 Haitian mango season.

Francis mango usually begins shipping from Haiti in mid-April, with peak volumes in May, June and July. During the 2011 season, Haiti shipped approximately 2.2 million boxes of Francis mangos to the United States. South Florida is the primary entry port for Haitian mangos.

The new code will end a long-standing conflict in the coding system that left the Francis variety with no good option for a PLU code. The National Mango Board (NMB) played a lead role in applying for the new code, at the request of several prominent Francis mango shippers and the Association Nationale Des Exportateurs De Mangues (ANEM), the mango growers association in Haiti. “Applying for a new PLU code is not particularly difficult, but it should be a carefully considered move,” said William Watson, NMB executive director. “The NMB spoke to dozens of retailers, shippers and growers to ensure support before moving ahead in the application process.”

The NMB will continue to spread the word about the new PLU code 3621 to ensure a seamless integration when Haiti begins shipping the Francis mango this spring.

Francis is a beautiful mango with a rich, sweet and slightly spicy flavor. The deep orange flesh is soft, juicy and fibrous. The skin of the Francis mango is yellow and green with no red. The green overtones diminish and the yellow turns more golden as the mango ripens. As with all mangos, squeeze gently to judge ripeness.

Contact:
McKinzey Crossland
Fleishman-Hillard
Tel: (512) 495-7164
Email: [email protected]
www.mango.org