Splendid’s Jaguar mangos protect an endangered species
Splendid’s Jaguar mangos protect an endangered species
Splendid by Porvenir, a leading grower-shipper-importer of Mexican mangos, is on a mission to preserve the precious land on which its prized Jaguar mangos are grown, while also protecting the majestic but endangered species for which its mangos are named.
Cindy Schwing, vice president of marketing for Splendid, said that jaguars are facing threats in regions like Sinaloa due to habitat loss from intensive agriculture operations, development of roadways that fragment the animals’ natural range and poaching. As a result, the company launched a powerful and symbolic response with its Jaguar mangos, a purpose-driven brand.
“More than just fresh fruit, Jaguar mango is an initiative that turns every box sold into direct action for conservation,” said Schwing.
She said that since February 2024, this alliance between responsible growers and conservation organizations has been channeling funds into key projects in La Meseta de Cacaztla, a critical sanctuary for the survival of jaguars in Mexico. Those funds are used to:
- Track technologies to monitor wild jaguars
- Support habitat restoration and protection
- Strengthen community-based surveillance to safeguard these majestic cats
“We are proud to be part of such a meaningful effort, helping restore the land where jaguars still roam free and protecting the environment that gives them life,” said Daniel Ibarra, president of Splendid by Porvenir. “By contributing a portion of our Jaguar mango sales to this cause, we reaffirm our commitment to conservation and sustainability and to a future where nature and its species can continue to thrive in harmony.”
While Splendid offers a full lineup of mangos from Mexico, Ataulfos are first out of the gate, with supplies beginning in late June and running into October. Splendid markets its Ataulfo mangos under the Jaguar label and uses the “Save the Jaguar” campaign to raise awareness for the endangered species.
Next up are Kents, which come on the scene in late July-early August, followed by Keitts, which are in production in late August and are the largest mangos of the season, available for approximately six weeks.
Two years ago, Splendid branded its Keitt mangos as Keitt Kong, a take-off on King Kong and a reference to the variety as being the King of Mangos.
Volume of conventional mangos from Los Mochis is expected to be strong this year, Schwing said, and the region plays an important role as the end of the deal lines up well with the kick-off of the offshore mango season that starts in October.
“Los Mochis is important because the timing of the deal provides a ‘bridge to Brazil’ and the offshore season,” said Schwing.
Another advantage of Los Mochis fruit is that the area is designated a fly-free zone, so no hot water treatment is required and fruit holds up better as a result.
Schwing said organic plantings are expected to increase as well this year. Over all, conditions have been favorable, with timely rains to help fruit size and minimal winds to lessen scarring on fruit exterior.
“All in all, things are looking positive if Mother Nature continues to cooperate,” said Schwing.
For more information on the Jaguar Mangos and the “Save the Jaguar” campaign, visit https://splendidbyporvenir.com/landings/savethejaguar/index.html.
