Okra, also known as Abelmoschus esculentus or Lady’s Finger, is a versatile, nutritious vegetable belonging to the Malvaceae family. It's widely cultivated in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions. Known for its distinct shape, soft texture, and mild flavor, okra is a popular ingredient in various cuisines worldwide, especially in dishes like gumbo, curries, and stews.
Appearance: Okra is typically green, with elongated, tapered pods that measure between 2-4 inches long. Some varieties can also have red or yellow pods.
Taste & Texture: Okra has a mild, slightly grassy flavor with a crunchy texture when fresh. When cooked, it becomes tender and may release a characteristic sticky substance, adding body to soups and stews.
Size: Available in different sizes, with small to medium-sized pods being ideal for export due to their higher quality and consistency in appearance.
Color: Primarily green, though red and yellow varieties are also grown for niche markets.
Rich in Nutrients: Okra is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, folate, potassium, and magnesium.
Dietary Fiber: Okra is a great source of dietary fiber, which helps in digestion and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants like polyphenols that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Low in Calories: Okra is a low-calorie vegetable, making it a great option for weight-conscious consumers.
Freshness: Export-quality okra is harvested at the peak of ripeness to ensure optimal flavor and texture. Only fresh, tender pods are selected for export.
Packaging: Okra for export is carefully sorted, cleaned, and packed in hygienic, eco-friendly packaging to maintain its quality during transportation. Each batch is packaged to prevent bruising and to preserve freshness.
Storage & Handling: Okra requires cool storage (ideally between 7-10°C) and should be handled with care to prevent damage. For long-distance transport, it is often transported in refrigerated containers to maintain its freshness.