Kanniyakumari’s Matti is distinct with fragrance and honey-like taste

Source: The post is based on the article “Kanniyakumari’s Matti is distinct with fragrance and honey-like taste”  published in The Hindu on 18th August 2023.

What is the News?

The Matti banana variety, native to Kanniyakumari district in Tamil Nadu was recently granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

What is the Matti Banana variety?

Matti banana is a variety of banana native to Kanniyakumari district in Tamil Nadu 

It is also known as ‘Baby Banana’ owing to its nipple-like appearance.

Unlike typical banana bunches that grow straight, the Matti’s fingers exhibit a distinct wind-blown appearance. 

This banana has a sweet fragrance and honey-like taste.

Local marriages are incomplete without this banana variety, mixed with payasam served in the feast.

These bananas have low total soluble solids content (TSSC) which makes it suitable for a baby food.

The corm extract from the fruit is also used as a jaundice cure.

Varieties of Matti Banana: 1) Nal Matti boasts a yellowish-orange colour and fine aroma 2) Theyn [honey] Matti’s pulp tastes like honey 3) Kal Matti gets its name from the calcium oxalate crystals forming in its pulp and black dots on the skin 4) Nei Matti exudes the aroma of ghee and 5) Sundari Matti is facing extinction.