“Shipment of Sweet Scarlett grapefruit started about 10 days ago,” says David Krause with the Wonderful company. The company farms over 10,000 acres of the Rio Red grapefruit variety in the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. “We anticipate this year’s supply to be similar to last year,” mentioned Krause.
Trying to win over younger generation
“It’s the second year for the Sweet Scarlett brand and reception has been great. Retail trade is very happy as we are promoting a citrus category that was in decline,” declared Krause. “The consumer has forgotten about grapefruit and we are increasing awareness and trying to bring the consumer back. This is a slow process, but we are working hard to bring the consumer back and get the younger generation to incorporate this healthy citrus variety in their diets.” Traditionally, the older generation has been the larger grapefruit consumer and the Wonderful company is focused on building a new consumer base.
Increasing supplies in coming years
The results of consumer testing and consumer panels make Krause believe that Texas grapefruit has the best quality. “It has a deep red color, high brix level and is very juicy,” he said. “This gives it a different flavor profile and therefore, we continue to invest in the industry.” Each year for the next three to four years, the Wonderful company will be planting 1,000 to 1,500 combined acres of Texas grapefruit and oranges. Like Florida, Texas is in the early stages of battling citrus greening. “It is early and we are working aggressively to contain it,” shared Krause. “Despite this development, we keep on investing as we want to be able to meet consumer demand.”
For more information:
David Krause
Wonderful Citrus
Tel: (+1) 661-720-2400