Mango Mania Generates South Florida Cultural Traditions and Nostalgia
- In South Florida, the summer season brings an abundance of mangoes, which are shared and celebrated by locals.
- Zak Stern, the founder of Zak the Baker, exchanged loaves of bread for six local mangoes, receiving around 200 mangoes a day.
- Mangoes in South Florida hold cultural significance for immigrants from tropical countries, as they remind them of their childhood and help create a sense of home in a multicultural city.
- Mango cultivation in South Florida has a complex history, with varieties from around the world mixing together and creating a unique mango culture.
- While commercial mango operations have declined, mangoes still thrive in backyards and specialty markets, with enthusiasts seeking out rare varieties that are not found in grocery stores.