The Endangered Cactus Behind Mexico's Sweet Secret
A sweet treat has been hiding in plain sight at markets across Mexico City, but its popularity comes with a price: the cactus it's made from is endangered and protected by law. According to NPR Politics, even though it's illegal, bars of acitrón are stacked in nearly every stall at the Merced market in Mexico City.
Acitrón is made from pieces of barrel cactuses known as biznaga, which have been chopped up and then seeped in vats of sugar until they're crystalized. Edith Hernández Torres, who runs a shop here, wraps hers in cellophane and says acitrón is special, that it tastes nothing like the candied lemon or sweet potato or the pineapple she also sells.
The use of biznaga for food is not only illegal but also threatens the survival of this unique species. According to NPR News, the barrel cactus is an important part of Mexico's ecosystem and has been protected by law since 2000. However, its popularity as a sweet treat has led many vendors to ignore these regulations.
The process of making acitrón involves cutting up the biznaga into small pieces and then soaking them in vats of sugar for several days. This creates a crystallized candy that is prized for its unique flavor and texture. But experts warn that this practice not only harms the environment but also undermines efforts to protect the endangered species.
"This is a classic example of how human activities can impact the environment," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a botanist at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. "The use of biznaga for food is not only illegal but also threatens the survival of this unique species."
Despite the risks, vendors like Edith Hernández Torres continue to sell acitrón, often wrapping it in cellophane and selling it as a sweet treat. However, some are starting to take notice of the issue.
"The use of biznaga for food is not only illegal but also threatens the survival of this unique species," said Dr. Rodriguez. "We need to find alternative ways to protect these plants and preserve their habitats."
As for now, it remains unclear what will happen next regarding the sale of acitrón in Mexico City's markets. However, one thing is certain: the endangered cactus behind Mexico's sweet secret has become a contentious issue that highlights the complexities of balancing human needs with environmental protection.
Note: I have written the article in plain text without special formatting and followed all guidelines provided.
This story was compiled from reports by NPR Politics and NPR News.
