Chanthaburi province is one of the important areas in Thailand that is a major producer and exporter of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.), one of the world’s most important exports. This trend of increasing exports of fresh mangosteen and mangosteen products has been on the rise since 2021, especially considering the market situation in the Arab Emirates and the UAE, where the majority of the population is Muslim, making the consumption of alcohol or alcoholic beverages a violation of Islamic religious law. Therefore, fruit-based beverages and/or fruit juices have become significant in expanding the market, along with the internal situation in Chanthaburi province, where some local farmers face the challenge of oversupply, resulting in lower prices.
Furthermore, mangosteen is a fruit that is prone to spoilage, and it needs to be stored in refrigeration to extend its shelf life. If it is exported as fresh fruit to international markets, it must be of the highest quality and meet the Extra Class standard. This often requires additional processes to prolong shelf life during transportation, which in turn increases costs for the local farmers.
These challenges led to the development of a new product, “Organic Mangosteen Vinegar,” which not only helps address the spoilage issue and the cost of storage but also aims to create a future market for the product. For many Thais, mangosteen is known for its sweet and delicious taste, but for most foreigners, it is often described as a combination of lychee, peach, strawberry, and pineapple, making it a unique and appealing flavor. Additionally, dried mangosteen fruit is rich in dietary fiber, calcium, potassium, vitamin C, and essential vitamins, all of which contribute to a healthy diet. The high potassium content in mangosteen helps maintain healthy blood pressure, and dietary fiber aids in maintaining digestive health.
The product “Organic Mangosteen Vinegar” is produced through a fermentation process involving mangosteen, vinegar, and beneficial microorganisms, creating organic acids that give it a refreshing and slightly sour taste. This makes it a healthy beverage with multiple health benefits, such as supporting efficient digestion and helping control blood sugar levels. This product can be used in various culinary applications, including as a healthy beverage, in pickling vegetables, or as an ingredient in salad dressings, making it suitable for health-conscious consumers.
In short, “Organic Mangosteen Vinegar” offers a solution to the issues of spoilage and storage costs while providing a unique and healthy product for consumers.