Latest News From Fall Tropicals

This a growth year for Miami-based J&C Tropicals, especially when it comes to dragon fruit, which is on track to have double the sales of the year before.

Teaching U.S. consumers about tropical produce is no snap, said Chris Ciruli, partner with Nogales, Ariz.-based Amex Distributing Co./Ciruli Bros.

As summer wanes, sales of tropicals could heat up with a bit of help from retailers, marketers say.

Organics accounted for more than 5% of total food sales in the U.S. last year. That rising demand includes tropical items, importers said, despite the challenges of growing an organic product in a hot, wet environment.

The deadly salmonella outbreak linked to Mexican papaya hasn’t stopped demand for the popular fruit, but it has affected supply.

Mangoes and avocados have enjoyed explosive growth in the U.S. market, moving from exotic specialties to mainstream items.

As summer fruit winds down, expect tropical displays to take a more prominent role in retail produce departments.

Business updates on companies featured in The Packer's Fall Tropicals section.

Tropicals are hot, and the fall season is looking good in terms of volumes and a smooth transition between growing areas.

Papayas are having a moment.

Tonya Hill is the new regional manager of the Texas division of Vineland, N.J.-based Amazon Produce Network.