Health Awareness Ups Demand for Seasonal Fruits in Visakhapatnam
Locals choose wild fruits and ice apples for taste, health, and summer hydration
Visakhapatnam: Demand for seasonal fruits in Visakhapatnam has reached remarkable heights, reflecting the citizens’ deep appreciation for nature’s gifts. Local markets are vibrant with many takers for the delightful array of fruits, including Eetapallu (wild date fruit), Tati Munjulu (ice apples), Gulabi Jamikaya (water apple), cashew fruits, Seema Chintakaya (Dulce beans), jackfruits, strawberries, and litchis.
Vizag residents are eager to enjoy the seasonal bounties, nourishing themselves with these natural treasures.
Summer has evoked within the city’s dwellers craving for hydrating fruits. “Eetapallu are packed with antioxidants that lower the risk of heart disease. They provide vital minerals like calcium and magnesium, which are essential for strong bones. I feel it’s worth the splurge, even at a high price,” shared M. Saradhi, who purchased one sola (a traditional dry measurement unit in Telugu) Eetapallu for Rs 200 at the Rythu Bazar near the III Town police station. People are not hesitating in spending even Rs 500 on their cherished fruits, feeling these are an investment for their health.
Kanuri Panduranga Rao, a long-time wholesale fruit seller at Purna market, says, "Wild date fruit, ice apples, water apples, cashew fruits, Dulce beans, jackfruits, strawberries, and litchis are only available once a year. There is a strong belief among city dwellers that consuming these fruits will enhance their health. This is why these fruits are in high demand."
Retailers across Visakhapatnam have experienced encouraging sales of wild date fruit, ice apples, water apples, cashew fruits, Dulce beans, jackfruits, strawberries, and litchis. An increasing number of health-conscious individuals are choosing these fresh seasonal fruit juices over carbonated drinks, reflecting a desire for healthier lifestyles.
G. Prasad, Estate Manager at Gopalapatnam Rythu Bazar, said healthcare professionals are encouraging residents to move away from artificial sweeteners and enjoy seasonal fruits in their natural state. Many have started believing that seasonal fruits are essential, as they help the body adapt to weather changes throughout the year.
Rising awareness in this regard is transforming seasonal fruits into a lifestyle choice.
