With the shift in lifestyle patterns caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a greater emphasis on a balanced and nutritious diet. Exotic fruits and vegetables are in trend due to their appeal, color, nutrition, pleasant aroma, delicate flavor and luscious taste.
The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has developed several strawberry, fig, date palm, grapes, broccoli, Chinese cabbage, celery, lettuce, sweet pepper, and baby corn which can be cultivated by farmers for consumers as well as domestic consumption.
"Last year, the university developed new strawberry varieties, namely Chandler and Winter Dawn," said Sheetal Chawla, Assistant Director of Publications at PAU.
"Fruits are consumed as fresh and for the processing purpose. Strawberry may be used to prepare a variety of items, including squash, ice cream, jams, syrups, ready-to-eat foods, cosmetics, and confectionaries, according to Sheetal Chawla.
The PAU recommends two varieties of figs (anjeer): Black Fig 1 and Brown Turkey.
Known for their excellent flavors, medicinal and dietary properties, figs are consumed as fresh, dried, candied, preserved, canned or used for making of jam.
"Hillawi and Barhee are date palm (khajoor) varieties that can be eaten raw, dry, or soft. They are rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants," Sheetal Chawla added.
In grapes, Superior Seedless, Punjab MACS Purple (for red wine), Flame Seedless, Beauty Seedless and Perlette (for vinegar preparation) are the PAU recommended varieties.
The PAU developed the vegetable varieties, Palam Samridhi and Punjab Broccoli I. Saag Sarson and Chini Sarson-I varieties are recommended by the PAU.
“Because of its sweet flavor, baby corn has export potential and is a delicacy in hotels, airlines and shipping businesses. Farmers can benefit financially from growing exotic fruits and vegetables. They can follow the PAU's package of practices for fruits and vegetables for effective development of these crops," stated Sheetal Chawla.
