Calavo Growers enters licensing partnership with Old El Paso

The California-based avocado producer and value-added fresh purveyor has secured exclusive manufacturing rights for Old El Paso brand fresh guacamole and salsas in the U.S. market.

Smiling headshot Helen Kurtz in a blue shirt at Calavo Prepared. Photo: courtesy of Calavo Growers
Smiling headshot Helen Kurtz in a blue shirt at Calavo Prepared. Photo: courtesy of Calavo Growers
(Photo: Courtesy of Calavo Growers)

Calavo Growers, a global avocado, tomato and papaya producer and provider of value-added fresh food, is launching a brand licensing partnership with General Mills.

Calavo will act as the exclusive manufacturer of the Old El Paso brand of refrigerated, fresh guacamole and salsas in the U.S. market. This new line of products will launch in fall 2022 and will feature proprietary recipes. The product line is currently available to grocery, mass and convenience channels nationwide.

“Old El Paso is the number one Mexican brand in the U.S. with about a third of all households enjoying Old El Paso products on a regular basis,” Helen Kurtz, senior vice president and general manager of Calavo Prepared, said in a press release, referring to 2022 Nielsen Panel Data for General Mills.

Old El Paso refrigerated guacamole blends come in mild and medium flavor profiles and are produced with hass avocados, tomatoes, onions, garlic, jalapeno, sea salt, lime juice and cilantro to create a homemade taste and chunky texture. Old El Paso cantina-style fresh salsas are made from premium-grade tomatoes, onions, peppers and garlic, and are blended into a balanced recipe. The product line is comprised of real flavors, is gluten-free and has extended shelf life.

“Calavo is thrilled for the opportunity to be the exclusive manufacturer of this iconic brand’s refrigerated, fresh guacamole and salsas in the United States,” Kurtz said.

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