The City Where Waste Is Wealth: Fruit Peels Fetch ₹8 Lakh in This Country

China (The Uttam Hindu): When asked about the most precious metal, most people would name gold. However, some fruits are so valuable for human health that their worth can surpass even precious metals. One such fruit is the tangerine, known locally as "Cantonese" in parts of China. The aged peels of this fruit, called "Chenpi," fetch astonishingly high prices due to their health benefits and historical significance.

In Xinhui, a city in China’s Guangdong province, the economy thrives on tangerine peels. The health benefits of these peels have been documented in Chinese medicinal practices since the 12th century. According to locals, the unique soil and water in Xinhui contribute to the exceptional quality of the tangerines grown here. While tangerines are cultivated in other regions, the ones from Xinhui are considered superior.

"Chenpi," the dried peel of the fruit, undergoes a meticulous drying process every autumn and winter for at least three years. The older the peel, the higher its value. Historically, Chenpi was a prized ingredient in the meals served to emperors in Beijing's Forbidden City. Today, it is widely used in traditional medicine to manage conditions like high blood pressure and obesity, as well as in cooking and wine production.

A local entrepreneur, Lee, who grew up in Xinhui, left the city in 1980 but returned in 1996 after realizing the potential of Chenpi. Initially dismissed as a risky venture, his efforts have since turned into a thriving business. "My father and grandfather grew tangerines, but I saw the opportunity in trading the peels," Lee explained. "Today, we’ve transformed this industry into a major economic driver for the region."

In 2023, a kilogram of dried tangerine peel from Hong Kong, dating back to 1968, was auctioned for an impressive $9,646. That same year, the Chenpi industry contributed approximately $13.8 billion to the region's economy, accounting for a significant portion of Xinhui’s GDP. The city now produces about 163 tons of Chenpi annually. From traditional medicine to culinary uses, Chenpi remains a cornerstone of Xinhui’s culture and economy, solidifying its place as a unique and valuable commodity.