Soaking mangoes before eating them is a common practice in many households, especially in tropical regions where mangoes are abundant. Your grandma likely has some good reasons behind this advice. Let's break it down into simple points :

1. Cleaning :

 Soaking mangoes helps to clean them thoroughly. Mangoes might have dirt, dust, or pesticides on their skin, especially if they were picked directly from the tree or bought from an outdoor market.

2. Removing Chemicals : 

Soaking can also help to remove any chemicals or pesticides that might be present on the mango skin. Even if you wash the mangoes under running water, some chemicals might still cling to the skin, so soaking can further reduce this risk.

3. Softening the Skin : 

Mango skin can sometimes be tough and bitter, especially if the mango is not fully ripe. Soaking the mango in water for a while can soften the skin, making it easier and more pleasant to eat.

4. Enhancing Flavour : 

Soaking can also enhance the flavour of the mango. As the mango sits in water, some of its natural sugars may dissolve, intensifying its sweetness. This can be particularly beneficial if the mango is not fully ripe when you pick it.

5. Juiciness :

 Soaking can help to make the mango juicier. The water can seep into the fruit, making it more succulent and refreshing when you bite into it. This can be especially enjoyable on a hot day….

6. Cooling Effect : 

In hot climates, soaking mangoes can have a cooling effect. Eating a chilled, soaked mango can be incredibly refreshing and can help to cool down your body temperature on a sweltering day.

7. Preventing Spoilage :

 Soaking mangoes in water can also help to prolong their freshness. If you have a lot of mangoes and you're not planning to eat them all at once, soaking them can help to prevent them from spoiling too quickly.

8. Hygiene : 

Soaking mangoes is also a hygienic practice. It ensures that the fruit is clean and safe to eat, especially if it has been handled by multiple people before reaching your kitchen.

9. Tradition and Culture : 

In many families and communities, soaking mangoes before eating them is a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Your grandma might have learned this practice from her parents or grandparents and is now passing it on to you.

10. Enjoyment : 

Ultimately, soaking mangoes before eating them is about enhancing your enjoyment of this delicious fruit. It's a simple step that can make a big difference in the taste, texture, and overall experience of eating mangoes.

So, the next time your grandma tells you to soak mangoes before eating them, remember these points and appreciate the thoughtfulness behind her advice. It's not just about washing the fruit it's about making the most of its flavour and freshness…