Cold Storage for Mangoes: The Indian Market Perspective

India stands as the world’s largest producer of mangoes, with production reaching 20.77 million tonnes in 2023 and projected to grow by 4.4% in 2024. Despite this impressive production, post-harvest losses of 25–30% continue to plague the industry, primarily due to inadequate cold storage infrastructure and cold chain facilities.

Current Cold Storage Practices in India

Temperature and Humidity Requirements

• Most Indian varieties store best at temperatures between 8–13°C

• Relative humidity requirements vary by type:

  • Asian varieties: 90–95% humidity

  • Indian varieties: Lower humidity levels are preferred

• Critical temperature thresholds:

  • Many Indian varieties show chilling injury below 10–13°C

  • Alphonso mangoes can be stored at 45–48°F (7.2–8.9°C) for up to 7 weeks

  • Totapuri (Bangalora) mangoes store well at 42–45°F (5.6–7.2°C) with 85–90% RH for up to 7 weeks

Storage Duration for Popular Indian Varieties

• Badami (Alphonso): 12–16 days at 30±2°C with 60–85% RH

• Neelam: 8–12 days at 30±2°C with 60–85% RH

• Totapuri: 16–20 days at 30±2°C with 60–85% RH

• With advanced Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage: 3–6 weeks for most varieties

Advanced Storage Technologies for the Indian Market

Controlled Atmosphere (CA) Storage

The Indian mango export sector is gradually adopting CA storage with conditions of:

• Oxygen (O2): 3–7%

• Carbon dioxide (CO2): 5–8%

• Temperature: 13°C

• Relative humidity: 85–90%

This technology has shown promising results, extending storage life from 2–4 weeks in conventional storage to 3–6 weeks in CA storage.

Ultra Low Oxygen (ULO) Storage

This advanced technology is gaining traction in premium mango handling facilities, allowing for:

• Extended storage duration of 6–7 weeks

• Better quality retention for export markets

• Reduced reliance on chemical treatments

Recent Developments in Indian Mango Cold Chain

Cold storage infrastructure has expanded by 25% in major mango-exporting states as of March 2025, significantly improving shelf life and export capabilities. This expansion has contributed to India’s mango exports reaching 32,104.09 MT, valued at $60.14 million in 2023–24.

Challenges Specific to the Indian Market

1. Infrastructure Gaps
   Despite recent growth, India faces a supply gap of 99.6% in pack houses and cold storage facilities.

2. Logistics Issues
   The lack of adequate cold storage facilities and inefficiencies in the supply chain lead to delays and wastage, potentially hindering export growth.

3. Variety-Specific Requirements
   India grows over 30 commercial varieties of mangoes, each with unique storage requirements, making standardized solutions difficult.

4. Transportation Challenges
   Traditional methods of transporting mangoes using bamboo baskets and poor ventilation result in 20–30% losses.

How Rinac is Addressing India’s Mango Cold Storage Needs

Rinac has positioned itself as a leader in providing customized cold storage solutions for India’s diverse mango varieties. By understanding the specific requirements of varieties like Alphonso, Banganpalli, Chausa, Dashehri, Langra, Totapuri, and Kesar, Rinac offers:

1. Variety-Specific Storage Solutions
   Tailored temperature and humidity controls based on the specific requirements of different Indian mango varieties.

2. Integrated Cold Chain Solutions
   Comprehensive systems that address not just storage but the entire cold chain from farm to market.

3. Export-Ready Infrastructure
   Facilities that meet international standards, supporting India’s growing mango export market.

By addressing these specific needs of the Indian mango industry, Rinac is helping reduce post-harvest losses and supporting the growth of both domestic and export markets for Indian mangoes.