If you enjoy Meghalaya’s famous Kew pineapples, you can get a taste of these delicious fruits in Delhi! The second edition of the Meghalaya Pineapple Festival kicked off at Dilli Haat on July 10 and will go on till July 14. Organised annually by the Meghalaya government, the festival aims to highlight the agrarian legacy of these pineapples which are famed for their flavour.
Meghalaya's pineapple industry recently achieved a milestone as it reportedly exported 3.5 million tonnes to the Middle East in June. Known for its distinctive sweet flavour and juiciness, the Kew pineapple from Meghalaya has earned a reputation for being one of the finest varieties available in the country. The unique climatic conditions and fertile soil of Meghalaya provide an ideal environment for pineapple cultivation. The state's hilly terrain and abundant rainfall contribute to the rich, tangy sweetness of the Kew pineapple.
The fruit is large, with a golden-yellow colour when ripe, and has a firm texture that makes it suitable for various culinary uses, from fresh consumption to cooking and canning. Pineapple cultivation in Meghalaya is not just a means of livelihood but also a significant part of the state's agrarian economy. The farmers employ traditional farming methods; the harvesting season, typically from June to August, sees a bustling activity in the pineapple-growing regions, with local markets and vendors offering freshly harvested fruit.
The state's pineapples are noted for their low pesticide and heavy metal residue, as well as their superior sweetness, with a Brix value of 16-18. The festival will also spotlight the stories of pineapple growers and entrepreneurs, whose produce has received regional, national and international attention. Apart from the twelve different stalls which have been set up by the farmers and small entrepreneurs from Meghalaya, the festival also has stalls dedicated to authentic Meghalaya cuisine.