BREAKING NEWS: Endangered Cactus Species Threatens Mexico's Sweetest Secret
Mexico City, Mexico - The Mexican government has confirmed that the sale of acitrón, a sweet treat made from the endangered biznaga cactus, is being banned nationwide due to overexploitation. Bars of acitrón are stacked in nearly every stall at the Merced market in Mexico City.
The ban comes after it was discovered that the biznaga cactus, a species of barrel cactus, is on the brink of extinction. The Mexican government began banning the sale of acitrón in the early 2000s, but enforcement has been inconsistent. Now, with the species' population dwindling rapidly, authorities have vowed to crack down on vendors selling the sweet treat.
Acitrón is a popular confection made by chopping up biznaga cacti and seeping them in vats of sugar until they're crystalized. Vendors like Edith Hernández Torres, who runs a shop at the Merced market, claim that acitrón has a unique chewy texture and flavor.
The ban is expected to have an immediate impact on vendors who rely on selling acitrón for income. Authorities are working to educate consumers about the dangers of consuming products made from endangered species.
This is a developing story, with further updates to come as more information becomes available.
*This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Npr.*
