Khasi blood orange in spotlight amid rising global demand
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Shillong: Fruits of every region have their own specialty, and so is the case with the Khasi blood orange. It is a special citrus fruit grown in the cool hills of the northeastern state of Meghalaya. The inside colour of the fruit attracts everyone. This fruit is replete with nutrients and plenty of health benefits. Its rare crimson colour comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that are suitable to grow in low temperatures.
This unique citrus fruit looks attractive and is packed with several minerals and vitamins such as vitamin C, fiber, and other antioxidants, improving immunity power, giving healthy skin, making digestion better, and boosting heart health. Such qualities have made it the first choice for health-conscious consumers and fruit lovers.
It is grown only in limited areas, especially in Meghalaya. The Khasi Blood Orange is considered a premium fruit. The prices vary by region. In local markets, it can sell from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000 per quintal (100 kg), or about Rs 50 to Rs 200 per kilogram. In Shillong, prices have been seen between Rs 7,500 and Rs 8,500 per quintal.
Several pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries are using this exclusive orange in their products. Its large-scale farming is not possible, so its availability in markets is limited, available only in selected markets. With the increasing demand in both local and global markets, it becomes more important fruit for farmers, fetching better incomes for them.
