Yes, you can eat a mango like an apple, meaning biting directly into the fruit with the skin on, although there are a few things to consider.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Is it commonly done? No, it's not the typical way to eat a mango. Most people peel or slice a mango before eating it.
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Is the skin edible? Yes, the skin of a mango is edible.
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What does the skin taste like? The skin can have a slightly bitter or astringent taste. Some varieties have thicker and more bitter skin than others. The ripeness of the mango also affects the taste of the skin.
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Are there any benefits to eating the skin? Yes, mango skin contains fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Eating the skin can potentially increase your intake of these nutrients.
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Are there any risks to eating the skin?
- Pesticides: Mangoes, like other fruits, may be treated with pesticides. Thoroughly washing the mango before eating it is crucial to remove any potential residue.
- Urushiol: Mango skin contains urushiol, the same oil found in poison ivy and poison oak. Some people are sensitive to urushiol and may develop an allergic reaction (contact dermatitis) after touching or eating mango skin. The concentration of urushiol is generally low in ripe mangoes.
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How to make it more palatable:
- Choose ripe mangoes: Ripe mangoes generally have thinner and sweeter skin.
- Wash thoroughly: Wash the mango thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or pesticide residue.
- Blend it: If the taste of the skin bothers you, try blending mango slices (with the skin on) into a smoothie.
In summary, while technically possible and even potentially beneficial, eating a mango like an apple (skin and all) depends on personal preference, the variety and ripeness of the mango, and individual sensitivity to urushiol. Washing the mango thoroughly is always recommended.
