Brazil: Minas Gerais producers are betting on cape gooseberry

Physalis, also known as cape gooseberry or aguaymanto, is becoming popular among producers in Minas Gerais, Brazil, due to its easy planting, high yield, and suitability for the local climate. However, it faces the challenge of changing perceptions in the local market, currently dominated by imports. Denis Araujo Santos, inspired by his sister's dessert, started cultivating the fruit with guidance from Emerson Gonçalves from Epamig. Epamig has been conducting research on Physalis production for ten years as part of a 'small fruit' project that also includes raspberries. The guide and assistance for small producers aim to address challenges like climate change, phytosanitary and fertilization control, and soil conditions. The plants can produce for two years, after which they need to be replaced.

Physalis, cape gooseberry or aguaymanto. No matter what you call it, the truth is that the fruit is gaining popularity among producers in Minas Gerais due to its ease of planting, how suitable it is for the climate of the area and its high fruit yield, highlights a news note from the Brazilian media Estado de Minas. At the moment, the fruit is largely imported and the local market is a great challenge, since in order for the country to have a regular production, it would be necessary to “change the perception” about the fruit, because it is characterized as a gourmet or elite product. But some have dared. According to the Brazilian media, Denis Araujo Santos, 52 years old, “discovered” the fruit in a dessert prepared by his sister, became interested and decided to grow it. With the guidance of agronomist and researcher Emerson Gonçalves, from the Agricultural Research Company of Minas Gerais (Epamig), he was encouraged to produce it thanks to the favorable soil conditions where he ...