| Papaya ripe for export markets |
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A NEW variety of papaya planted on the outskirts of Mareeba is set to improve the eating experience of the tropical fruit. The largest papaya grower in Australia, Skybury Plantation, has switched varieties in a bid to meet consumers' needs and expectations of the fruit. Already there is talk that the sturdy fruit has export potential as it does not bruise easily. Owner Ian MacLaughlin said the new papaya ticked a lot of boxes in terms of presentation and eating quality. "First, in size its weight is ideal at between 800gm-1.2kg consistently," he said. "It ripens evenly and its firm flesh cuts almost like a melon which means it presents much better in salads. "Also it has a sweeter taste than regular papaya, and even has fewer blemishes on its skin." Nola Craig, from Australian Tropical Foods in Cairns, said the fruits ripened well and were ideal for cooking. "They are also very good for salads," she said. "There is some export potential as they hold together really well, whereas some other papayas can turn to mush. "It's possible a papaya like this could be in demand in say New Zealand or perhaps Japan." Go to article www.cairns.com.au/article/2010/04/28/107361_local-business-news.html |