In late January, Mike and Tyler had the chance to visit Southern India to get an up-close view of the cashew industry. It was a fascinating trip that took us to a cashew farm, a processing facility and a roaster. At the cashew farm we were introduced to all of the different stages of cashew growth and development. We learned about the cashew apple and even tasted the fruit right off the tree. It was bitter and very acidic. Let’s just say I am not sure I would be having one of these apples every day.
At the processing facility we learned how they take the raw cashew seeds (still in the shell) and steam, crack, heat, peel and sort them. All of this to yield what we know as a raw cashew.
We met some of the best people in the cashew industry. Our gracious hosts took very good care of us on our trip. It was a pleasure to spend time with them and to learn more about their industry and their families.
Mike and Tyler had the opportunity to take a backwater tour on the interior waterway. Mike tried his hand at making rope and we saw dozens of different birds, a prawn farm and many different local fruits, vegetables and spices. It was a very relaxing trip and our tour guide was an absolute comedian. He climbed a 40 foot coconut tree in about 5 seconds flat and told great stories. The highlight of the trip may have been when Mike and Tyler both tried to lean back in the boat to go under a low bridge (imagine a sitting limbo). They both fell off their seats and onto their backs on the floor of the boat. As they fell, they both cracked their heads on the wood seat behind them. While it was painful, it induced a good, hard 5 minute laughing spell for everyone. Mike had a welt on the back of his neck for a good solid week.
Our last night we had the treat of staying on the Arabian Sea and witnessed a spectacular sunset. All around it was a fantastic trip and one of life’s truly great experiences.
