Alphonso Mango Skin: To Eat or Not to Eat?

Alphonso Mango Skin: To Eat or Not to Eat?

We all love the juicy sweetness of Alphonso mangoes, but what about the skin? Have you ever wondered if it’s something you can, or should, eat? I know I have. The first time I thought about it, I was torn between curiosity and a bit of hesitation—after all, the skin isn't as inviting as the juicy flesh inside. But it turns out there’s more to mango skin than you might think...

Is Alphonso Mango Skin Edible?

The short answer is yes—you can eat Alphonso mango skin. Like the peel of many fruits, it’s packed with nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants. But whether you’ll enjoy eating it is another story entirely. It might depend on your taste buds, the health benefits you’re after, and any potential risks.

The Nutritional Profile of Mango Skin

You might not guess it, but as well as the flesh, mango skin is actually a little nutritional powerhouse. It's packed with fibre, which is great for digestion, and it’s full of vitamins like A, C, and E that your body loves. The skin also has powerful antioxidants, including something called mangiferin, which has been linked to anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Not too shabby for something most people usually toss in the bin, right?

Potential Risks and Considerations

But before you dive in, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Mango skin contains urushiol, the same compound found in poison ivy and poison oak. For some people, urushiol can cause allergic reactions, from mild irritation to a pretty unpleasant rash. So, if you know you’re sensitive to this kind of thing, it’s probably best to steer clear of the skin.

And let’s talk about taste and texture. Mango skin is tougher and has a bit of a bitter edge compared to the sweet, juicy flesh inside. It’s not for everyone.

How to Safely Consume Mango Skin

If you’re curious and ready to give mango skin a go, here’s how you can make it a bit more enjoyable:
  • Wash Thoroughly: This one’s a no-brainer. Make sure to wash the mango well to get rid of pesticides or residues.
  • Blend It: If you’re not a fan of the texture, blending the skin into smoothies is a great way to get the nutrients without the chewiness.
  • Cook It: Cooking can soften the skin and mellow its bitterness. Consider adding it to chutneys, jams, or even stews.

Other Uses for Alphonso Mango Skin

If munching on mango skin isn’t your thing, no worries—you can still put it to good use in other fun and creative ways:
  • Infused Water: Add the skins to a jug of water for a subtle fruity flavour. Let it sit for a few hours to infuse.
  • Tea: Dried mango skin can make a refreshing tea. Simply dry the skins in the sun or a dehydrator, then steep in hot water.
  • Compost: If you garden, mango skins are a great addition to your compost, enriching the soil with valuable nutrients.
  • Skincare: Mango skins are also great for homemade skincare. The antioxidants and vitamins can benefit your skin. Try making a simple scrub by blending the skin with sugar and coconut oil.

While Alphonso mango skin is technically edible and nutritious, whether you eat it is really up to you. The skin offers plenty of health benefits but also contains urushiol, which can cause reactions in some people. If you decide to give it a try, start with a small amount and see how your body responds.

And if eating it isn’t your thing, no worries—there are still lots of ways to put mango skin to good use, from culinary experiments to skincare and composting. 

Tempted yet? If you’re ready to enjoy the finest Alphonso mangoes shipped straight to your door, you can shop our selection here.
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