Pérez recalled the origins of the entity at the beginning of the century, when growers, exporters and distributors joined forces to create an organisation capable of developing the US mango market, increasing consumption and improving fruit quality.
The businessman explained that in 2005 the board of directors was officially established, with 18 members, including foreign growers and US distributors, under the supervision of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). According to Pérez, the early years were marked by a learning process on how to structure the organisation’s operations, although three fundamental pillars were quickly established: Marketing, Research and Industry Relations.
Educating the US consumer
Pérez also stressed that one of the greatest challenges was educating the US consumer. “There were people who did not even know what a mango was,” he recalled. Through information and promotional campaigns, the organisation managed to teach consumers how to eat the fruit, its culinary uses and its nutritional benefits.
He also underlined the key role of scientific research in improving aspects such as quality, food safety, cold chains and hydrothermal treatments required for exports. In this regard, he acknowledged the work of Dr Leonardo Ortega and the different technical teams that have collaborated with the industry over the years.
Thanks to this joint work, mango exports to the United States have grown by more than 250% since 2005, according to Pérez, who said the sector has achieved a high level of professionalisation and transparency in the use of the organisation’s financial resources.
The pioneer of the National Mango Board also stated that the future of the sector lies in the growth of organic mangoes and practical consumption formats, such as fresh-cut mango, smoothies, frozen mango and dried mango.
Commitment to organic mangoes
Jorge Pérez, head of Perez Orgánico, said that the future of the industry will be shaped by the growth of organic mangoes and new, more practical and versatile consumption formats.
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Pérez stressed that mangoes represent a healthy, high-quality alternative for families and argued that more and more consumers are looking for fruit that is tasty, nutritious and sustainable.
Fresh-cut mango gains ground in the United States
He also pointed out that fresh-cut mango is gaining prominence in the United States thanks to its convenience as a snack and its versatility in smoothies, drinks and different preparations.
Finally, Pérez expressed optimism about the future of mangoes in the United States and said the National Mango Board “is here to stay”, consolidating its role as an essential tool to continue increasing the presence of mangoes in US households.
Francisco Seva Rivadulla. International Agri-Food Journalist
