The Indian town of Mangaluru is facing the problem of extremely low cashew nut production.
What happened?
Although cashews are one of the major crops grown on the west coast of India, cashew farmers in Mangaluru town are in a tough situation. Daijiworld’s report found that although Karnataka uses 500,000 tons of cashew nuts annually, the state currently produces only 50,000 tons of cashew nuts.
Due to erratic weather conditions and a lack of market support for farmers, cashew yields are so low that many cashew farmers give up.
Currently, the state relies on imports for 90% of its cashew nuts. However, if the yield of local cashew plants is optimized, Karnataka can significantly reduce its imports.
Why is low crop yield a concern?
India’s low cashew production is part of a larger change in global agriculture.
From a 90% decline in chestnut production in Greece to farmers around the world struggling to produce seeds, global warming is having a serious impact on food systems.
According to the World Meteorological Organization, 2025 will be the second or third hottest year on record, with heat waves and high temperatures causing trouble for farmers’ livelihoods and the planet’s food systems.
If crop yields decline, certain groceries may become harder to find, or prices may spike.
Animals that feed on cashew nuts in the wild, such as monkeys, may find it more difficult to survive if their food sources are depleted. This could have ripple effects and affect the wider ecosystem.
What should we do if crop yields are low?
The Cashew Research Center is providing farmers with high-yielding cashew varieties and developing better resistance to pests and diseases for their crops.
Although most people know the cashew tree for its nuts, the cashew tree also grows edible apples. If local demand for the fruit grows, the country can reduce its dependence on imports.
To gain more personal control over your grocery bill without having to rely on fluctuating global markets, you might consider growing your own fruits and vegetables. While it’s not an option for everyone, gardening is a great way to relax and unwind while enjoying a yard filled with delicious treats.
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