London traders hit by 'king of mangoes' shortage

Mango sellers in south London say a shortage of India's prized Alphonso variety is pushing up prices and limiting supply at the height of the season.

In Tooting, a long-standing hub for South Asian food and culture, traders report fewer deliveries than usual this spring.

The Alphonso, often called the "king of mangoes" for its sweetness, rich flavour and distinctive aroma, is typically flown into the UK each year between April and June.

But traders say supply is lower this year and prices have risen as a result, with global factors linked to the Middle East affecting the journey from orchard to market.

Industry crop reports state adverse weather conditions in parts of India have led to low production of the prized fruit.

Shabir Khan has been selling Alphonso mangoes in Tooting for 24 years. Each spring, his Mango Uncle stall draws crowds from across the capital who are eager to buy the prized fruit.

"At this time of year, normally many of London's high streets are flooded with Alphonsos," Mr Khan says. "But this year it's different."

He attributes the increase in prices partly to disruption in global air routes and longer freight routes, linked to conflict in the Middle East.

"The planes have to fly a longer way to come, so oil prices have gone up," he explains. "That's why it's so expensive this year."

Despite the higher costs, demand remains strong. Customers still queue at the stall, many asking specifically for Alphonsos.

"I'm back here for my mangoes," one shopper says. "Definitely Alphonsos."

For many Londoners of South Asian heritage, mango season is a cultural moment as much as a culinary one.

Food writer and influencer Ranji, known online as Tooting Mama, says the fruit's appeal lies in its distinct flavour and texture.

"They're not as fibrous as the mangoes you get in the supermarket," she explains. "They're definitely not sour; they're very, very sweet and very soft."

"If the French have Beaujolais, we've got our mangoes," she says.

However, she has noticed a clear change this year.

"In the past, you'd see sellers bringing them in by the trolley load, with crowds gathered around," she says. "This year, it feels much quieter."

With the Alphonso season lasting only a few weeks, enthusiasts often make the most of the fruit while it is available.

"It's much better than buying it in the supermarket," Ranji says.

Although other mango varieties will continue to be sold throughout the summer, many fans say the Alphonso remains unrivalled.

Back at the stall, customers sample a homemade mango lassi, a traditional yoghurt-based drink.

"That's delicious," one says. "So much better than anything you'd taste in a restaurant or the shops."

For now, the crowds may be smaller and the prices higher, but in Tooting, Mango Uncle's stall remains a centrepiece of the season.