Prickly figs that grow naturally took their place on mobile stalls
In Mersin, prickly figs that grow naturally have taken their place on mobile stalls. Known among the public as a ‘source of healing’, prickly figs are sold for 10 liras a piece.
Prickly figs, which grow naturally especially on the coasts of the Mediterranean and Aegean regions, are the fruit of a wild cactus plant and are attracting attention. Prickly figs, which are believed to increase body resistance and are good for the digestive system and are known by different names such as ‘Indian fig’ or ‘Frank fig’ depending on the region they grow in, are sold for 10 TL a piece.
Prickly figs, which are cooled in ice blocks or cold water at mobile stalls in the city center with the start of the season and then put on sale by cleaning the prickly shells, are known among the public as a ‘source of healing’.
“It is good in the heat, it cools us down a bit”
Stating that there is a high demand for prickly figs and that they have difficulty growing products as a result, street vendor Doğan Güneş said, “There is a high demand, we sell an average of 500-1000 pieces daily. We finish the figs we bring in one day. It protects heart health, strengthens bones and teeth, works the intestines, and is very beneficial for cancer and lungs.” Stating that the prickly fig harvest started in the first week of July, Doğan said, “There is a very high demand this season. Sometimes a customer of ours buys 50-100 pieces daily.”
Street vendor Vedat Öndeş, who stated that citizens are interested in prickly figs due to the hot weather, said, “Prickly figs are in high demand in Mersin due to the heat. It is a very beneficial fruit in terms of taste and vitamins, a fruit that brings the stomach flow back to itself.”
Toprak Kuzu, who stated that he often eats prickly figs due to the hot weather, said, “I can’t stand the hot weather. That’s why I eat prickly figs. This fruit has all the vitamins. It’s good for the heat, it cools me down a bit.” – MERSİN
Source: İhlas News Agency / Local