Nothing screams “Cebuano snack” more than a pack of dried mangoes.
Did you know that the Philippine mango is considered the sweetest kind in the world?
More popularly known as the Carabao Mango, it is an integral part of Philippine cuisine.
You can find this delicious fruit in many Filipino desserts, such as mango float, mango shakes, and mango pandan. Another great way to enjoy the fruit is by pairing it with the famous puto sikwate.
It’s therefore no surprise that dried mangoes have quickly become a beloved snack around the world. With healthy nutrients and a long shelf life, they are undoubtedly one of the most popular Philippine products.
They come in small, flat strips, which are chewy and reminiscent of gummy candies. It is notable for its rich sweet flavor.
An article on IFEXConnect states that dried mangoes can survive long travel periods and have a shelf life of up to 18 months. (2021)
You can find many of these being sold at pasalubong centers and public markets as well. The compact size and chewy texture make it great for eating on the go.
Most of all, they are an extremely successful business venture, which helped put Filipino delicacies on the map.
It is believed that dried mangoes in Cebu came about after a family started drying mango slices under the sun to extend its shelf life. This was then delivered to customers in far-flung areas.
It was a popular staple in the city in the 1950s, but it became a commercially viable product in 1978 because of Cebuano businessman Justin Uy and Profood International Inc.
THE MANGO KING
Profood is the world’s largest producer and distributor of dried mangoes, which Justin started when he was selling the product around Cebu City.
This was his fourth business venture after falling short in the industry of jewelry, poultry, and mushroom farming. Mangoes were already a lucrative business in Cebu as people enjoyed eating them as they were.
Justin took the opportunity to support local farmers, as they usually don’t harvest mangoes because of a lack of buyers. He offered to buy their mangoes from them, assuring them that he will pay for them in the future.
He first set up his factory inside a nipa hut with an unpaved floor, borrowing materials that would allow him to mass produce his dried mangoes. In 1986, he went all in on his business venture, leading to the formation of Profood.
Justin then planned on bringing dried mangoes to a wider consumer base, flying to Japan and familiarizing himself with the international standards of quality.
After partnering with companies like Nestle and Coca-Cola, Profood became known for its top-notch quality products. Now, they supply more than 40 large companies in Japan and over 50 other countries.
They have since expanded their factory by adding better machinery, eventually paying off the mangoes to the local farmers. The company stood the test of time, operating for over 45 years.
This success gave Justin the moniker “the mango king”.
He then expanded his business outside of the food industry.
Justin and his family manage the JPark Island Resort and Waterpark in Lapu-Lapu City and the JCentre Mall in Mandaue, although the latter was recently purchased by SM Prime Holdings, and is currently the fourth SM mall on Cebu island.
DRIED MANGOES IN THE PHILIPPINES
You can purchase dried mangoes in most retail outlets in the country. They are also available in supermarkets, department stores, and convenience stores. They are often featured in exhibits and trade fairs as well, highlighting the many delicacies of Cebu.
You can visit pasalubong centers and public markets like the OTOP in Ayala Center Cebu, Islands Souvenirs, Carbon, or the Taboan Public Market. Some of these places offer special versions of the product, including ones coated in chocolate.
The aforementioned IFEXConnect article claims that dried mangoes take the largest share among processed mango products in the entire country at 77% shares, compared to only 9% used for mango juice, 8% for airtight mangoes, and 7% for puree. (2021)
85% of the total dried mango production in the Philippines is exported to key markets like the US, the UK, China, Canada, Japan, South Korea and other Asia Pacific regions.
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Justin Uy will go down in history as one of the most influential Cebuanos. Thanks to him, dried mangoes are well-known around the world.
Then again, dried mangoes are more than just a business to him.
Profood has helped many farmers in Cebu gain a successful livelihood, helping them bring their children to school. When purchasing these products, you are also supporting the hardworking farmers that tirelessly harvest these irresistibly tasty fruits.
This is one delicacy where you can appreciate Filipinos’ love for sweetness.
REFERENCES:
Mendiola, Idge. 2021. “Dissecting the Demand for Dried Mangoes.” IFEXConnect. https://www.ifexconnect.com/story/dissecting-the-demand-for-dried-mangoes#mainStory
