MONTEREY, Calif. — The growth in organics was a key theme at this year’s Organic Produce Summit, July 10-11, at the Monterey Convention Center, where exhibitors featured new products and discussed increased availability of established brands.
Bay Baby Produce featured its two packs of organic winter squash including acorn, delicata and spaghetti squash. It also showcased its Pumpkin Pie Baking Kit that pairs pumpkin with a spice pack, supported by a recipe for making pumpkin pie and a QR code that links to a video demonstration for making pumpkin pie.
At the Dole booth William Goldfield said organic banana programs are growing faster at retail than conventional programs. “We want to help retailers grow their organic programs because everyone benefits — the retailer, the consumer and the supplier,” he said.
Highline Mushrooms touted its Organic White Button Mushrooms available in four-packs. “They’re great on the grill or topped with a fried egg for breakfast,” said Devon Kennedy. “They’re called breakfast flats in Europe, but they’re great for breakfast, lunch and dinner.”
“We’re excited about organic blueberries and cherries, which have great quality,” said Sarah Lucas, director of retail strategy for Superfresh Growers. “We’re also excited about the promotional opportunities for apples and pears. Cosmic Crisp, especially the organic offerings, are really going to take off this year.”
At the Chelan Fresh booth, Darrin Carpenter said the company is entering its second season of the Joyfully Grown organics brand. He also sees “a lot of interest” in its Organic Rockit apples.
“We’re looking for significant growth this season,” Carpenter said of the Organic Rockit apples. The company is extending the availability of the organic apple to seven months this year, up from four to five months in the past, he added. “That’s really exciting for us.”
Caputo & Guest featured its bounty of organic exotic mushrooms including its Chef’s Mixes line of Prime Steakhouse Mix, Asian Bistro Stir Fry Mix, Exotic Oven-Roast Mix, Wood-Fired Pizza Mix and Gourmet Saute Mix. It also spotlighted Golden Oyster Mushrooms in 4- and 8-ounce packages, as well as maitake and shiitake mushrooms, which the company says are chef favorites.
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