The Sweet Solace of Mangoes: A Journey Through Memories and Tradition

Mangoes hold special memories for many people, particularly in India. They evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia, and their fragrance and beauty are celebrated during the summer months. One woman's family has a personal connection to mangoes, as her mother was nursed back to health with mangoes during a childhood illness. The fruit has been a source of comfort and resilience for generations.

Mangoes, a staple in Indian cuisine, are celebrated for their versatility and cultural significance. They are not just a fruit; they are a symbol of joy, nostalgia, and resilience. This article explores the culinary uses of mangoes in Indian cuisine and their impact on the business of PepsiCo, particularly in the second quarter of 2025.

Culinary Versatility of Mangoes

Mangoes in India come in a variety of flavors and textures, from sweet and floral alphonso to tangy totapuri and langda. They are used in numerous dishes, from savory to sweet, reflecting the rich diversity of Indian regional cuisines. Raw mangoes, known for their tartness, are a common ingredient in dishes like mamadikaya pulihora from Andhra Pradesh and aam bata from Bengal. These dishes add freshness, tang, and complexity to meals, making mangoes an indispensable part of Indian cooking [1].

Ripe mangoes, on the other hand, are celebrated for their natural sweetness. They are used to make desserts like aamras in Maharashtra and Gujarat, and amrakhand in Maharashtrian and Gujarati cuisine. The mango seed acts as a natural preservative, preventing enzymatic browning or oxidation when aamras comes in contact with the air [1].

Impact on PepsiCo's Business

PepsiCo reported a 4% organic revenue growth in its international convenient foods business during the second quarter of 2025, driven by strong performance in markets such as India, Mexico, and Brazil [2]. However, the International Beverages Franchise (IBF) segment, which focuses on the bottling and distribution of PepsiCo's beverage brands outside of North America, experienced a decline in India during the second quarter. This decline was attributed to unseasonal rains and a short summer affecting beverage sales [2].

Despite the challenges, PepsiCo's overall net revenue increased by 1% to USD 22.72 billion, driven by international operations and improved performance in North America. The company expects its business to remain resilient for the remainder of the year, led by international operations [2].

Conclusion

Mangoes are more than just a fruit in India; they are a cultural icon that brings people together. Their versatility in Indian cuisine makes them a beloved ingredient in various dishes, from savory to sweet. Meanwhile, their impact on PepsiCo's business highlights the importance of understanding regional preferences and market conditions. As the summer months approach, the demand for mango-based products is likely to increase, presenting both opportunities and challenges for businesses like PepsiCo.

References

[1] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/cooking-with-mangoes-aams-the-khaas-ingredient-in-desi-kitchens/articleshow/122764265.cms

[2] https://manufacturing.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/food-beverages/pepsico-reports-growth-in-snacks-business-in-india-in-q2-beverages-face-challenges/122775367