Univeg Katopé report first arrivals of Israeli mangoes

In this Olympic year UNIVEG Katopé are pleased to report the first arrivals of new season Israeli mangoes. Despite hot weather in Israel in June, reports suggest a good season ahead, with a higher yield of fruit compared to 2011.

With mangoes now a recognised mainstream fruit line in the UK, consumers are increasingly looking towards ready to eat, premium varieties to broaden their tasting experience. The start of the Israeli mango season is signified by the appearance of premium varieties before moving over to the more widely known fibreless varieties.

The costs of bringing in these varieties in 2012 have been significantly reduced by a new seafreight service sailing via France, which has reduced the need for airfreight. UNIVEG Procurement Manager Clive Bayston said "We recognise Israel as a good source of mangoes and we see definite benefits in fruit quality as a result of the very short sea freight shipping times. We will start off the season with speciality mango Aya & Maya and then move into Kasturi."

As the season progresses the more recognised Keitt and Kent varieties will become available towards the end of August. The Israeli season will last through until October before sourcing moves to Brazil and Ecuador.

For more information: www.univeguk.co.uk