“Cutting food waste is a delicious way of saving money, helping to feed the world and protect the planet.”
– Tristram Stuart
The dried fruit industry is a major part of the East African economy and provides livelihoods for thousands of people. In 2018, East Africa accounted for 31% of the world’s exports. Dried fruits are a valuable source of nutrition for many people and East Africa is home to some of the most delicious and exotic fruits in the world.
Exploring the Richness of Eastern African Fruits
Rutasoka has several dried fruits available: Mango, pineapple, and a tropical mix of mango, pineapple, and bananas, and also jackfruit.
The culture of Eastern African fruit consumption is very different from the one in Europe. In East Africa, fruits are consumed fresh from trees, and/or at open markets. This means the market for dried fruits is not big enough there for a small business.
Empowering East African Farmers
The dried fruit industry in East Africa has significant potential to contribute to economic growth, job creation, and food security in the region. However, several challenges impede its progress. To address these obstacles, Rutasoka saw the need for working with local farmers in, amongst others, Kenya to improve their value-addition process. This was done by promoting knowledge transfer and establishing market linkages that help unlock the full potential of East African dried fruits, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
The fruits are carefully dried to preserve their flavour and extend their shelf life. At the same time, the fruit’s nutritional values are preserved and they are therefore rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent snack for everyone. East African dried fruit is a showcase of the region’s rich agricultural heritage and contributes to economic growth, job creation, and food security.
Our dried fruits are a healthy and delicious snack for you and your loved ones, from the sweet and tangy mangoes, and succulent pineapples to the delectable bananas, there is a flavor for everyone.
So, the next time you’re looking for a healthy snack, order some dried fruits from Rutasoka and taste the difference that comes with sustainable sourcing from the best farms in Africa.
