Using a little to achieve a lot
Most of Grenada’s
agricultural produce is for the domestic Grenadian market. Our farms produce
several types of fruit and vegetables, and many more in different varieties. Our
fresh produce range from temperate stone fruits and staple vegetables to exotic
tropical fruits.
The agricultural industry accounts for over a third of
employment in Grenada. A host of rural communities rely heavily on business
created by local agricultural enterprises. It sits in the top three of Grenada's
industries, keeping close company with construction and tourism. Grenada is also
a significant producer of melons, limes, lettuce, pumpkin, gungo peas, sweet
corn, avocados, cucumber, cabbage, tomatoes and shallots. It is also a major
producer of exotic tropical fruits such as mangoes, papaws, soursop, mammy
apples, sugar apples, star apples and carambola. More than 70 per cent of
Grenada’s exports go to the United States and European Union. Bananas being the
MNIB’s largest export commodity. Grenada's fruit and vegetable industry is a
leading example in using a little to achieve a lot.
As responsible custodians of
our natural resources, growers are increasingly adopting sustainable farm
management practices and earning a strong reputation as safe food producers. Our
clean, green organic approach is recognised around the world. Grenada enjoys the
advantage of being able to supply export and domestic markets all year round.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy
Most of the
plantations in Grenada have been cultivating Cocoa, Banana, Nutmeg and other
spices for export as the island's main source of foreign exchange for hundreds
of years. Europe being the largest purchaser of nutmeg and the United Kingdom
holding the title for bananas.
Mr Fitzroy James (General Manager of the
Marketing & National Importing Board) is responsible for securing fresh fruit
and vegetables from farmers throughout Grenada, Carriacou and Petit Martinique
for export and local consumption. Bananas have always been popular both as an
export crop and a staple diet. It has invaluable nutritional benefits, rich in
fiber, vitamins, potassium and low in calories. Other produce available are
mangoes, watermelons, sweet potatoes, yams, plantains breadfruit, pumpkin,
cauliflower etc. Consumers are offered a variety of freshly prepared snacks and
local juices at their Young Street, St. George's retail outlet.
