Exotic Fruits

A mini-exhibition of the world of fruits from geographical areas with a mild climate is illustrated in the images of the postage stamps from the Exotic Fruits issue, which Romfilatelia is introducing into circulation on Thursday, June 19th this year. It includes four postage stamps and a First Day Cover.

The term exotic is defined in the dictionary as something unusual or originating from countries located far away from the one we live in. For Europeans, exotic fruits refer to varieties that come from geographical regions where the warm and humid climate provides suitable conditions for their cultivation. These regions mainly include the Mediterranean, the tropical areas of Central and South America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and several islands in the Pacific.

Over the centuries, these fruits brought to Europe have become a source of inspiration for chefs and nature product enthusiasts. Each exotic fruit is characterised by its shape, texture, taste, and colour.

In addition to their rich colours and delightful taste, exotic fruits offer numerous health benefits. As excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they stand out as a way to support the proper functioning of the body.

The consumption of exotic fruits is not only a culinary experience but also an imaginary journey into the world of cultures and traditions. Each region has its own specific fruits, closely tied to its history and cultural identity. In most geographical areas, exotic fruits are used in ceremonies, traditional dishes, and annual festivals, reinforcing a sense of connection with the past and with ancestors.

Exotic fruits, for the most part, appear as nature’s jewels, offering an unparalleled world of flavours and colours. They bring a sense of optimism with their unique taste, opening a window to the cultural and botanical diversity of the world we live in.

The postage stamp with the face value of Lei 3 features the image of the Pitaya (dragon fruit). Native to Central and South America, it is the fruit of a cactus. It has a distinctive taste and is rich in nutrients, especially vitamin C, magnesium, and fiber. Its flavour resembles a mix between kiwi and pear. Its attractive appearance and unique aroma also make it a popular choice for decorating culinary dishes.

The postage stamp with the face value of Lei 5 features the image of the Carambola (star fruit), the fruit of a tree native to Southeast Asia. When sliced, it resembles a star. With a sweet and tangy flavour, it is a source of potassium and fiber, along with phosphorus, zinc, and iron, and is recommended for its health benefits. It is also suitable for people with diabetes.

The postage stamp with the face value of Lei 8 features the image of the Litchi, a seasonal tropical fruit cultivated in China, Thailand, and Vietnam. It stands out for its unique colour and texture. Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, it is known for its benefits to the immune system and skin health.

The postage stamp with the face value of Lei 25 features the image of the Papaya (tree melon), native to southern Mexico and Central America. It is a source of an enzyme called papain, which is used to tenderise meat and is also an ingredient in commercially available tenderising powders.

The black seeds, which are edible and have a spicy taste, are ground and used as a substitute for black pepper. The fruit contains vitamins B, C, and D, beta-carotene, and flavonoids. It is beneficial for health and supports the immune system. The taste of the fruit is sweet and slightly fragrant.

The First Day Cover features a suggestive image that brings together several exotic fruits in a thoughtfully arranged composition, highlighting the harmony between shapes, textures, and colours.

Romfilatelia thanks Prof. Paulina Anastasiu, Ph.D., Manager of ‘Dimitrie Brandza’ Botanical Garden of the University of Bucharest, for the documentary support to the development of this postage stamps issue.