For mango farmers, wastage can be costly — but also an opportunity. Byproducts and raw materials from mango can be turned into value-added products such as dried mango, pickled mango, puree, jam, vinegar, and chutney, which can provide additional livelihood for farmers and growers.

For example, the Tropical Fruits Multipurpose Cooperative at Barangay Matulong, Manaoag, Pangasinan is processing surplus and unused mangoes into processed products that complement their core business of delivering fresh mangoes to local and international markets.

The challenge is how mango farmers can capitalize on value-added processing to maximize their income and provide more opportunities to their local community.

Agrilink 2023, which is slated from October 5 to 7, will highlight Region 1 and showcase the challenges, opportunities, and other vital issues in the mango industry. Visit agrilink.com.ph for more info about Agrilink.