Located in North-East India, Meghalaya is a beautiful state which is known for its famed monsoon, traditional festivals, dramatic terrain and rich biodiversity. But did you know along with these things, the state is also famous for its top-quality pineapples? Apart from the domestic market Meghalaya’s pineapples are also exported to different countries.
Recently, the state organised a pineapple fest in capital New Delhi, which has received appreciation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. PM Modi expressed his happiness that this fruit is finally getting the recognition which it deserves. “Happy to see Meghalaya’s Pineapples receiving the recognition they deserve both domestically and internationally. Such endeavors not only celebrate our diverse agricultural heritage but also empower our farmers,” he said on X (formerly Twitter).
The Meghalaya Pineapple Fest-2023 which is being organised by the Government of Meghalaya at Dilli Haat, INA, New Delhi. This fest is being held to celebrate the state’s famed produce, the succulent Kew pineapples. Agriculture minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, Tourism minister Paul Lyngdoh and senior officials of the state government were also present at the inauguration of the three-day festival. Earlier Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma had also posted on X, about the display of state produce that at Dilli Haat.
He said, “Pineapples with its sweetness measuring high brix value of 16-18 is gradually making it a sought after fruit, by retailers like Reliance apart from being exported to other countries.” The CM added, “This is opening bigger markets for farmers who are getting the fruit of their hard labour." Several tonnes of Meghalaya’s pineapple have been brought to this fest by the farmers, craftsmen and self-help groups from different parts of the state.
Recently, the pineapples from the state have been gaining huge popularity. Meghalaya contributes approximately 7.69% (APEDA 2021-22) of the total pineapple production in the country, making the state one of the top five pineapple producing states in India. They also have the lowest pesticide and heavy metal residue in the fruit due to the minimum use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
Known for being incredibly delicious, here are a few reasons to eat pineapple:
- Pineapples are packed with several nutrients including vitamin C, zinc, manganese, calcium and phosphorus. They are also low in calories.
- According to Healthline, this fruit contains a group of digestive enzymes that may help breakdown the protein and ease digestion.
- As pineapple is loaded with several nutrients, eating it daily can lower the risk of both viral and bacterial infections.
- According to Healthline, this fruit contains bromelain which provides relief from the symptoms of arthritis.
- If you are into intense workout, then pineapple is a perfect addition to your diet. According to WebMD, the anti-inflammatory properties of this fruit can help your muscles to recover quickly and prevent you from feeling sore.
- As this fruit is loaded with vitamin C and several antioxidants, consuming pineapple daily can improve your eye health. According to PharmEasy, it reduces the risk of macular degeneration which affects the eye as you get older.