Mangoes are one of the most popular fruits in the world, known for their sweet, juicy flavor. But have you ever wondered how are mangoes sorted and graded at the factory before they arrive at your local grocery store? Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating process

First Arrival

When mangoes arrive at the factory, they are usually transported in large boxes or baskets. These fruits come from different orchards and can vary greatly in quality. The first step is to unload the mangoes and move them to the sorting area. This is where the sorting and grading journey begins

Sorting by Size and Shape

The first sorting process involves separating the mangoes based on their size and shape. This is usually done using a mango sorting machine with adjustable channels. As the mangoes move along a conveyor belt, they pass through these channels, which are designed to only allow mangoes of a certain size to pass through. Smaller mangoes may be directed to one side, while larger mangoes continue down the main conveyor belt. This initial sorting helps ensure that the mangoes are uniform in size for later handling and packaging

Inspecting External Quality

Once the mangoes have been sorted by size, they move to the next stage, which is to inspect the external quality. This is usually done by a team of workers who carefully inspect each mango. They look for any signs of damage, such as bruises, cuts, or insect bites. Mangoes with severe external damage are set aside as they may not be suitable for sale in their current state. However, some of these damaged fruits may still be useful for other purposes, such as making juice or mango puree.

Grading by Ripeness

Ripeness is another important factor in mango grading. Fully ripe mangoes are brightly colored and slightly more yielding when gently squeezed. They also have a sweet aroma that is hard to ignore. Workers use their experience and sense of touch to determine the ripeness of each fruit. Mangoes that are not yet ripe are separated and kept in a special area where they can continue to ripen under controlled conditions. On the other hand, overripe mangoes are also set aside as they may not have the texture and flavor to be consumed fresh.

Final Sorting and Packing

Once the mangoes have been sorted by size, checked for external quality, and graded by maturity, they are ready for final sorting and packaging. Mangoes of similar size and maturity are grouped together and placed in boxes or crates. These boxes are then labeled with information such as the mango variety, size, and maturity. This labeling helps retailers and consumers know exactly what they are getting

Quality Control and Standards

Throughout the sorting and grading process, quality control is vital. Factories follow strict standards to ensure that only the best quality mangoes are sent out. These standards are usually set by regulatory agencies or the companies themselves. Inspections and audits are conducted regularly to ensure that the sorting and grading process is carried out correctly

The Role of Technology

In recent years, technology has played an increasingly important role in the sorting and grading of mangoes. Advanced machines can now detect even the slightest blemishes on the surface of the fruit. Some factories also use sensors to measure the firmness and sugar content of mangoes, allowing for a more accurate assessment of ripeness. These technological advances not only increase production efficiency, but also ensure that consumers receive the highest quality mangoes

Conclusion

The process by which factories sort and grade mangoes is complex and meticulous. It combines manual labor experience and technology to ensure that only the best fruit makes it to market. The next time you enjoy a delicious mango, take a moment to appreciate the effort that went into bringing it to you