Major Indian importer IG International recently landed its first air-shipment of avocados in Mumbai.
Imported from Delica, a New Zealand grower-exporter, the shipment signals a move by IG to develop the market for avocados in India.
While avocados are new to most Indian consumers, IG is confident that the fruit will appeal to the increasingly health-conscious population on account of its potent nutritional content.
“Much more than just a delicous creamy addition to your meals, the avocado is a nutrient-dense fruit with potential health benefits for all groups,” said Sanjay Arora, director of IG International, in a media statement. “From expectant mothers and babies to everyone interested in watching their weight and maintaining a healthy heart, avocados are a energy-packed super food.”
Sarthak Kakkar, Mumbai branch manager for IG International, added that avocados can help lower cholesterol levels as they contain plant sterols which may reduce the absorbtion of cholesterol in general.
“It’s no surprise that the avocado is a Heart Foundation-approved fruit to be enjoyed in moderation,” he said. “The avocado is one of the only fruits to contain predominantly monounsaturated fats (oleic acid), and around 7 per cent polyunsaturated fat (linoleic acid), making the fruit an ideal healthy eating choice.”
IG is importing Delica’s New Zealand avocados as a premium line. The fruit is imported in 5.5kg cartons in count sizes 23 and 25. “The fruit has a very rich flavour and ships and stores well,” IG said in a media statement.
IG imported 30,000 tonnes of fresh fruits last year, with key lines including apples, cherries, kiwifruit, oranges, plums and sweet tamarind.
