Miyazaki mangoes || Nutritional Profile of Miyazaki mango
Miyazaki mango or Irwin
The 'Irwin' mango, also known as the Miyazaki mango, is a renowned cultivar celebrated for its vibrant red skin, sweet flavor, and juicy, fiberless flesh. Developed in South Florida, it has gained international acclaim,
Miyazaki mangoes, often referred to as "Egg of the Sun," are a premium variety of mango cultivated in Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan. Known for their rich red color, perfect oval shape, and extraordinary sweetness, these mangoes are considered some of the finest in the world. The mangoes are carefully grown under controlled conditions, including the use of netting to ensure even exposure to sunlight, which enhances their vibrant color and flavor. They have an incredibly high sugar content, with total soluble solids (TSS) often exceeding 15%, and are completely fiberless, making their texture smooth and luscious. Miyazaki mangoes are typically harvested between April and August and are hand-selected for quality, ensuring that only the best fruit reaches the market. Due to their exceptional taste, appearance, and labor-intensive cultivation process, these mangoes are often sold as luxury items, with prices sometimes reaching hundreds or even thousands of dollars per piece. They are popular as gifts in Japan and are celebrated for their unique combination of aesthetic appeal and delightful flavor. particularly in East Asia.
The Irwin mango originated from a seedling of the Lippens cultivar, open-pollinated with Haden, planted by F.D. Irwin in Miami, Florida, in 1939. The tree first bore fruit in 1945 and was officially named and described in 1949. Due to its appealing flavor, productivity, and disease resistance, it gained commercial acceptance and has since been introduced to countries like Japan, Taiwan, and Australia.
The Irwin mango is ovate in shape, featuring a rounded base and a pointed apex without a beak. Its smooth skin develops a striking dark red blush upon ripening. The flesh is yellow, fiberless, and offers a mild yet sweet flavor accompanied by a pleasant aroma. Typically, the fruit matures from June to July in Florida and is often found in clusters.
Irwin mango trees are moderately vigorous, capable of exceeding 20 feet in height if left unpruned, developing open canopies. They thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and have been successfully cultivated in regions such as South Korea (particularly Jeju Island), Japan, Taiwan, and Australia since the 1970s.
In Japan, Irwin mangoes are cultivated under controlled conditions and are highly prized for their beauty and quality, often fetching high prices under names like "Miyazaki" and "Egg of the Sun." In Taiwan, they have been the most popular mango variety for over fifty years, significantly contributing to the local economy and agricultural practices.
Irwin mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Their high total soluble solids (TSS) content, measured above 20%, indicates a high sugar concentration, contributing to their sweet taste and making them a nutritious addition to various diets.
Irwin mangoes are versatile in culinary applications. They are consumed fresh, used in desserts like the famous Taiwanese mango shaved ice, and processed into dried fruit snacks. Their sweet, fiberless flesh makes them ideal for smoothies, salads, and various tropical dishes.
The cultivation of Irwin mangoes has had a significant economic impact, especially in regions like Taiwan and Japan. In Taiwan, the introduction of Irwin mangoes in the 1960s led to the development of specialized agricultural zones, boosting local economies and establishing the country as a notable mango producer. In Japan, the high market value of Miyazaki mangoes has made them a lucrative crop for farmers.
