India’s mango exports have received a boost with the introduction of a hot water treatment technology developed by the ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (ICAR-IIHR), Bengaluru. The technology is designed to control fruit fly infestation while helping exporters meet the quarantine requirements of international markets. Scientists believe it will improve the export potential of South Indian mangoes and reduce post-harvest losses.
Fruit fly infestation remains one of the biggest challenges in mango exports. Many importing countries require strict quarantine treatment before allowing fresh fruit into their markets. The new ICAR technology provides a scientific solution that protects fruit quality while satisfying international phytosanitary standards.
The process involves immersing harvested mangoes in hot water at a carefully controlled temperature for a specified period. This treatment eliminates fruit fly eggs and larvae without affecting the fruit’s taste, colour or shelf life.
Researchers say maintaining the correct temperature is critical. If the water is too hot, fruit quality may decline. If it is too cool, the treatment may not effectively eliminate pests. The standardised protocol developed by ICAR-IIHR ensures both food safety and export compliance.
Unlike chemical fumigation, hot water treatment leaves no chemical residue on the fruit. This makes it suitable for markets where consumers increasingly prefer fresh produce with minimal chemical exposure.
Helping Mango Exporters
India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, yet exports account for only a small share of total production because of strict import regulations in many countries.
Scientists believe the new technology will enable exporters to access premium international markets by meeting quarantine requirements more efficiently. Better compliance can reduce shipment rejections and improve the reputation of Indian mangoes abroad.
The technology is expected to benefit growers of Alphonso, Banganapalli, Totapuri, Dashehari and other export-oriented varieties cultivated in southern India.
Apart from supporting exports, the treatment also helps reduce post-harvest losses caused by insect damage. Healthy fruits have a longer marketable life and better appearance, increasing their commercial value.
Researchers say combining scientific post-harvest management with proper harvesting, grading and cold-chain facilities can significantly improve returns for mango growers and exporters.
The technology can also strengthen farmer-producer organisations and export companies by improving consistency in fruit quality.
A Step Forward for India’s Mango Industry
ICAR-IIHR’s hot water treatment technology demonstrates how agricultural research can directly support farmers and exporters. By addressing one of the biggest barriers to international trade, the innovation creates new opportunities for expanding India’s mango exports.
Scientists believe wider adoption of the technology will improve the competitiveness of Indian mangoes in global markets while helping farmers receive better prices for export-quality fruit. As demand for premium tropical fruits continues to grow, scientific post-harvest technologies will play an increasingly important role in strengthening India’s horticulture sector.
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