India has reached a new level of success in the agro-products export sector by exporting new ready-to-drink fig juice to Poland. The juice produced with the GI-tagged Purandar Figs is a great start for accessing the European markets.
Purandar Highlands’ Achievement
The farmer producer company that has come up with this landmark export is called Purandar Highlands Farmers Producer Company Ltd based in India. Their fig juice, for which they have claimed a provisional patent, has received much recognition. The figs employed in the juice are identified by their sweetness, size, and nutritional values as indicated in the study. It is noteworthy that Purandar’s figs are reputed to be some of the best figs in India. Other produce from the region including Purandar Custard Apple, Ratnadeep Guava, and Green Pea also attract buyers across India.
Even at the SIAL 2023 exhibition and Macfrut Italy, the highest appreciation of the presented fig juice speaks about its high quality and popularity. The export was done through the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA).
History and Cultural Significance of Figs
Figs have been used from time immemorial for their taste, nutritive value, and therapeutic benefits. In many cultures, they are considered as signs of fertility, wealth, and richness. The tree itself is also symbolic in that it signifies strength, protection, longevity, power, and particularly resilience in the face of adversity. According to different traditions, figs are symbolized by certain positive characteristics if one comes across a fig in dreams or on the way.
Old Egyptian and Greek people grew them to represent fertility and plenty. As for Romans, they loved the fruits and treated figs like money. Today, figs are still widely used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food, thus preserving this history for modern people.
Nutritional Benefits of Figs
Figs are good sources of dietary fiber that help to ease digestion, combat constipation, and soften the stool. They are also considered to be prebiotic, providing food to healthy bacteria in the gut. Animal research also shows that supplementation with fig extract or paste may help enhance the condition of patients with digestive illnesses such as ulcerative colitis. Daily consumption of figs has effects on blood pressure and cholesterol levels and can be of benefit to those who suffer from hypertension.
Figs are loaded with copper that are vital for the production of energy and blood cells and Vitamin B6, which helps in breaking protein and maintaining a healthy brain. Figs contain soluble fiber which aids in controlling blood sugar levels. Eating fresh figs is another effective way of taking your body back to the gym; it even works well as a snack or part of your meals. Figs are sweet fruits that are not only tasty but also help to improve health.
Global Market Entry and Significance
Export partner Scion Agricos Pvt Ltd helped Purandar Highlands in marketing its juice in international markets. The accomplishment demonstrates that the Purandar region can also be placed on the international map while celebrating fig farmers and their ability to innovate and grow sustainably.
The first take-and-serve fig juice prepared in India being sent to Poland is an advancement for the Indian processed agricultural food export sector. This shows India’s increasing market share in the international market and the outlook that even specialty niche agricultural goods can make a difference.
Conclusion
The Indian fig juice with a GI tag reaching Europe is proof that India is a nursery to agriculture and a validation for Purandar Highlands. Every time fig juice crosses the border, it creates new opportunities for farmers across the country and unveils the vastness of Indian agro-produce.
