Resumen
- Climatic conditions in many areas are not suitable for organic banana production. Because of black Sigatoka, most organic bananas are produced in areas with less than 600 mm of rainfall per year and with long dry periods. For local organic production, a multitude of different banana genotypes with excellent flavor are available, some of which have useful resistance to certain pathogens. Despite the local success of alternative cultivars, the quality standard demands of the export market are very high. Basically, the market demands a perfect fruit of a standard shape and size with an overall cosmetic appearance that precludes visible blemishes. To meet these international standards, large amounts of pesticides are used in conventional systems. We strongly believe that it is important to educate consumers and marketers regarding the restrictions imposed by the export standards and to generate acceptance of bananas with less than perfect cosmetic appearance but with an overall better environmental pedigree.