Have you ever eaten a sweet mango on a hot day and closed your eyes? That juice, that sweetness, and that feeling, like you're sitting under a temple tree by the seashore! National Tropical Fruit Day, celebrated on July 18th, offers a similar experience. This day is dedicated to all those colorful, juicy, and healthy tropical fruits that are not only delicious but also a treasure trove for our health. Mangoes, pineapples, kiwis, papayas, coconuts, dragon fruits, and countless other fruits that we have received as gifts from nature.
How did this day begin?
National Tropical Fruit Day was started in 2023 by Amy Monette, a member of the National Day Calendar. She had a deep love for tropical fruits and felt that their beauty, taste, and health benefits should be celebrated through a special day. The month of July was chosen because it is the time when the summer is at its peak and tropical fruits are abundant in the markets. This day is a celebration of the diversity of fruits and their importance in our diet.
Why are tropical fruits special?
Tropical fruits are not just limited to taste; they are superfoods that refresh and nourish your body. Let's learn about some popular fruits and their benefits:
- Mango: Rich in vitamins A and C, beneficial for eyes and skin.
- Pineapple: Contains an enzyme called bromelain, which aids in digestion.
- Kiwi: A powerhouse of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system.
- Papaya: Helps in digestion and is beneficial for the skin.
- Dragon Fruit: Low in calories and high in fiber, with a wealth of antioxidants.
How to celebrate National Tropical Fruit Day?
1. Try Something New
Go to the market and buy a fruit that you have never eaten before, such as rambutan, mangosteen, or soursop. Their taste and texture will surprise you.
2. Create a Colorful Fruit Platter
Arrange mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and kiwis beautifully on a plate. Sprinkle coconut flakes or chia seeds on top to make a healthy snack.
3. Make a Tropical Drink
Combine coconut water, pineapple, and passion fruit to create a fresh drink. Add a few mint leaves or lemon drops and serve over ice. Even without alcohol, this drink will give you the feeling of a beach party.
4. Play a Blind Testing Game
Play a game of identifying fruits with your eyes closed with family or friends. This will not only be fun but will also encourage children to learn about new fruits.
5. Add a Twist to Fruit-Infused Recipes
Add mango pieces to a simple salad, put grilled pineapple on pizza, or try a curry made with coconut milk. This will add both freshness and flavor to your food.
6. Plan a Picnic
Take a basket full of fruit to a park near your home. Play outdoor games with the kids and eat tropical fruits as healthy snacks.
7. Start a Tropical Mini Garden
If you have space, plant plants like coconut, pineapple, or papaya in pots. They will not only provide greenery but also give you a pleasant experience of connecting with nature.
Tropical Fruits and Biodiversity
National Tropical Fruit Day is not just about taste or health; it reminds us of the biodiversity that exists in the tropical regions of the world. The diversity of these fruits found in countries like India, Thailand, Indonesia, and Brazil, and their connection with culture, connects us to global food traditions.
Importance of National Tropical Fruit Day
National Tropical Fruit Day gives us an opportunity to understand that tropical fruits are not only beneficial for taste but also for health. These fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help in boosting our immunity, improving digestion, and providing energy to the body. The purpose of this day is to introduce people to new fruits, make them aware of their nutritional value, and inspire them to include them in our diet. This day gives us a chance to celebrate the beauty of nature's diversity, colors, and flavors.
National Tropical Fruit Day is not only a celebration of taste and colors but also a symbol of the confluence of health, nature, and cultures. This day of July 18th reminds us that when we connect with nature, we also get the gift of health along with taste. So, let's taste something new, learn something new, and live life to the fullest with a fruit-filled life.
