Mangosteen, a tropical fruit known for its sweet and tangy flavor, has gained popularity in recent years, especially on platforms like TikTok. However, the high price tag attached to this fruit may come as a surprise to many. Buying just over a kilo of fresh mangosteens in the United States can cost you nearly $80, making it a luxury item for many consumers.
One of the main reasons behind the high cost of mangosteen is the specific environmental conditions required for its cultivation. This delicate fruit thrives in warm, tropical climates and needs abundant rainfall to grow successfully. Due to these unique requirements, the cultivation of mangosteen can be quite challenging and labor-intensive.
In addition to the environmental challenges, picking mangosteens at the perfect moment is crucial to ensure optimal flavor and texture. This adds another layer of complexity to the harvesting process, making it more time-consuming and costly. Furthermore, the US banned imports of mangosteens from major producers like Thailand and Indonesia, leading to a limited commercial supply of the fruit in the country.
Despite the spike in the commercial supply of mangosteen since the import ban, it still struggles to meet the growing demand. To better understand the process behind the cultivation of mangosteen and why it is so expensive, a team from Business Insider visited Kerala, India. There, they discovered the intricacies involved in growing and harvesting mangosteen, shedding light on the factors driving up its price.
Overall, the high cost of mangosteen can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its specific cultivation requirements, limited commercial supply, and growing demand in the market. Despite its hefty price tag, the unique flavor and nutritional benefits of mangosteen continue to attract consumers willing to pay a premium for this exotic fruit.
Watch the video by Business Insider
Video “Why Mangosteen, The Viral TikTok Fruit, Is So Expensive | So Expensive | Business Insider” was uploaded on 10/05/2024 to Youtube Channel Business Insider