This American traveller's TikTok review of South African fruits will make you drool
South African fruits have received notable praise from an American traveller visiting the country.
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For some, South Africa is the land of milk and honey, and the country's fresh produce has received high praise from an American traveller, Thee Mama Rashaah (@mamarashaah), who is currently visiting the country.
In a recent TikTok video titled "Tasting real fruit in Africa as an American," she shares her honest impressions of the taste differences between South African and American fruits.
“My favourite thing to do when I go to other countries is to visit the grocery store and try all the fruit I can because I want to remember what fruit is actually supposed to taste like."
"Right now, I’m in South Africa, and this is my third fruit that I’ve been trying,” she said, holding a cup of blueberries.
Rashaah initially disliked watermelon, but after tasting a locally grown variety, she had a change of heart.
“I love watermelon juice, but I don’t like the taste of watermelon. That watermelon tastes like it has sugar in it, and it was a good type of sugar that made my body feel regenerated,” she remarked.
She also expressed her newfound love for South African oranges, strawberries, and, of course, blueberries.
“I don’t know how I’m going to go back. I promise you, most people do not like blueberries, but if you have a blueberry from South Africa…I have been fantasising about those blueberries. I want to just throw away all my clothes and bring back fruits,” she exclaimed.
A contrast in flavours
Rashaah's appreciation for South African produce stems from her belief that American fruits often contain “chemicals that resemble food.”
She further commented that fruits in the United States tend to taste flavourless compared to their South African counterparts.
The TikTok video has sparked a wave of appreciation among South African netizens. Comments include:
@msnhlapo20 said: “This video just made me appreciate being a South African even more 😌.”
@veruschkagovender commented: “Our summer fruits are the best 🥰🥰🥰 You will love it. Our grapes, peaches, and plums grow in the Winelands, and we get extreme heat in summer. The fruits love it! Stay till you have them, babes.”
Another user, @just_phoza, said: “You must go to Venda and pick them straight from their trees. Top tier 🥰.”
While @xyzena44 said, “We have the best fruit, and December is the best.”
Why South African fruits stand out
South African fruit is highly regarded due to several favourable factors.
The country boasts a diverse climate and rich soils, allowing for a wide variety of fruit types.
Experienced farmers with generational knowledge contribute to the quality of produce, while government investments in the agricultural sector further enhance its reputation.