4644 Malanga/Taro

"A delicious staple in many Caribbean and Latin American cuisines"

A tropical root vegetable prized for its nutty flavor, starchy texture, and versatile culinary uses.

Also known as: Taro, Cocoyam, Eddo, Malanga Blanco

Botanical name: Xanthosoma spp

Malanga/Taro illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

4644 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

VegetablesMalangaAll Sizes

Origin

Native to the Americas, commonly cultivated in tropical regions

Storage Temperature

15-18°C (59-64°F)

Shelf Life

4-6 weeks

Status

Approved

About Malanga/Taro

Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, with various colors and shapes depending on the specific variety

Nutrition Information

Malanga or Taro is a nutrient-rich vegetable that offers a range of essential vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins C and E, and minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron.

Nutrition facts for 100 grams of boiled Malanga or Taro:

Energy: 108 kcal

Carbohydrates: 24.6 grams

Fiber: 2.6 grams

Protein: 1.6 grams

Fat: 0.3 grams

Water: 71.6 grams

Minerals:

Potassium: 519 milligrams

Magnesium: 23 milligrams

Phosphorus: 60 milligrams

Iron: 0.7 milligrams

Calcium: 19 milligrams

Zinc: 0.4 milligrams

Copper: 0.2 milligrams

Manganese: 0.1 milligrams

Vitamins:

Vitamin A: 0.2 micrograms

Vitamin C: 4.5 milligrams

Vitamin E: 2.2 milligrams

Vitamin K: 4.6 micrograms

Folate: 19 micrograms

Storage & Handling

High temperatures can cause spoilage. Maintain consistent humidity and temperature. Handle with care to avoid bruising.

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 15-18°C (59-64°F)
Humidity: 80-90%
Packaging: Breathable bags or ventilated containers
Shelf Life: 4-6 weeks
Storage Notes: Ethylene production is moderate. Malanga/Taro should not be stored with ethylene-sensitive commodities.

Search PLU Codes

Tags
4644Malanga/TaroXanthosoma sppAll SizesVegetablesMalangaApproved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
malanga
Variety:
Created:
December 1999
Last Updated:
December 2023
PLU Code Reference

4-digit codes: Conventionally grown produce

5-digit codes starting with 9: Organic produce

5-digit codes starting with 8: Originally intended for GMO (rarely used)


PLU codes streamline checkout processes, improve inventory management, and provide consistency across different stores. The system was developed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).