Daaks International, Inc. is based in Los Angeles, CA and grows, imports, and ships a wide range of fresh produce including South Asian and Indian fruits and vegetables. We spoke with Sam Thakker, Daak’s sales manager, about the wonderful world of okra.
Q: Why are so many people in denial about okra’s value as a vegetable?
A: It is primarily due to a lack of awareness: okra is still perceived as a seasonal vegetable and there’s inconsistent availability in retail stores across the country.
Q: Okra has always been a popular vegetable in Southern cooking – is it finally gaining acceptance in other regions of the United States and Canada?
A: Recent figures show immigrants from Asia have topped Hispanic population growth in some cities, a trend expected to continue over the next several years. Consequently, demand for okra has risen and continues to climb in these regions.
Q: Do you also import okra to keep up with demand?
A: During the winter season, we import from Central America; we also import from Mexico.
Q: Tell us a few things most people don’t know about okra.
A: Here are two historic facts: first, the earliest cultivation of okra was in Egypt, where it was reportedly part of Cleopatra’s daily beauty regimen; and second, in the United States, during the coffee shortage of World War II, okra seeds were substituted for coffee beans. Lastly, many people don’t realize okra is not only tasty, but has strong healthful properties such as helping to control cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It is also an excellent source of antioxidants and Vitamins A, C, and K.
