Gian Paolo Daguer: Colombia’s Champion for Native Fruits

Gian Paolo Daguer, known as the “Lord of the Fruit,” is actively working to preserve Colombia’s native fruit species threatened by climate change and agricultural practices. He educates thousands via social media about unique fruits like lucuma and churumbelo, while also promoting the cultivation of these species through community involvement. Experts underscore the risk of extinction facing numerous edible plants in Colombia, highlighting the importance of conserving biodiversity.

In Colombia, known for its remarkable biodiversity, Gian Paolo Daguer, widely referred to as the “Lord of the Fruit,” is committed to the preservation of native fruit species. Utilizing social media, Daguer educates thousands of followers about the flavors and culinary applications of rare fruits, including the lucuma, which he describes as a “queen of Peruvian fruits” with a caramel-like flavor and a dry texture. Despite their unique characteristics, native fruits in Colombia face extinction due to the overwhelming popularity of global varieties such as mango and pineapple.

Biologist Carolina Castellanos from the Humboldt Institute emphasizes the growing threat to these native species, stating, “As our diet becomes more homogenized, we all eat the same thing all over the world, so these (native) species are taking a back seat.” This decreased consumption results in reduced cultivation, heightening the risk of extinction. An example is the “churumbelo,” a sweet, pear-like berry from Boyaca, now endangered due to environmental disruption caused by agriculture and mining.

A study in 2022 revealed Colombia harbors approximately 3,000 edible plant species, with a concerning proportion at risk of disappearing. In 2024, significant deforestation occurred for agricultural expansion, particularly coca farming. In response to this challenge, Daguer promotes the cultivation of rare fruits by sending seeds to interested individuals for the cost of postage. His platform “frutas_colombianas” has garnered over 108,000 followers and fosters a community where biologists, farmers, and chefs exchange knowledge and seeds.

Daguer’s lifelong fascination with rare fruits culminated in the cataloging of the quinguejo in 2024, highlighting the importance of documenting these natural treasures before they vanish. He warns against ongoing ecosystem destruction, asserting that recovery demands human intervention through replanting. Chef Antonuela Ariza collaborates with Daguer by incorporating rare fruits into her restaurant’s offerings, reinforcing the notion that consumption plays a crucial role in conservation. “What we do not eat is lost,” she asserts, underscoring the necessity of integrating native varieties into contemporary cuisine for successful biodiversity preservation.

In conclusion, Gian Paolo Daguer’s efforts as the “Lord of the Fruit” highlight the critical need to preserve Colombia’s native fruit species amidst the threats posed by global dietary homogenization. With a commitment to education and community engagement, Daguer aims to foster a new appreciation for these rare fruits. The involvement of culinary professionals like Chef Antonuela Ariza further emphasizes the integral role of consumption in the conservation of biodiversity.

Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com