Strong outlook reported for New Zealand kiwano

(Enzed Exotics)

With harvest kicking off last week, New Zealand growers Enzed Exotics are looking ahead to a strong 2021 season for its premium Kiwano.

Enzed Exotics’ Renee Hutchings said “perfect growing conditions” were evident in the high quality and quantity of the early fruit, as well as the overall plant health. 

Said Hutchings, “Here in the Bay of Plenty we have clean air, strong sunlight, a mild climate and nutrient-rich soils which makes for great growing. Our summer has been hot and mostly dry, with intermittent rain to keep the plants healthy – just how Kiwano like it.”

New Zealand, an island nation with a small population, is also among the world’s countries least affected by Covid-19 after taking strict lockdown measures in 2020.

“We’re incredibly mindful of how fortunate we are right now, and it means we can get on with our job of growing high quality, safe food to export to the world.”
The company’s Kiwano is shipped via sea freight to the US with air freight also available to other destinations. 

Hutchings said Enzed Exotics was aiming to grow the profile of Kiwano, and help more people discover its health benefits. 

“Kiwano is hydrating, very low in calories and contains essential nutrients that help to both energise and balance the body. It’s a source of magnesium, which can help to reduce tiredness and relieve muscle tension, potassium for optimal muscle function, and dietary fibre for bowel health.”

“It’s a fun fruit that also makes you feel good. It’s refreshing flavour means it’s very versatile – the green pulp inside a Kiwano can be used in anything from salsas to sauces, on tacos, in cocktails, smoothies or scooped on top of yogurt and ice cream.”

Last year Enzed Exotics was purchased by KAMMI Produce, a family-owned and run business with over 30 years’ experience in growing Kiwano in both New Zealand and California. Enzed Exotics New Zealand Kiwano is grown and packed for export near Te Puke, an area also known for kiwifruit, manuka honey and dairy.

“We only grow Kiwano and are hands-on in every aspect of our growing and packing processes right through to export. This ensures our customers receive the premium quality fruit our brands are known for,” says Hutchings.
 

 

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