Papaya is in peak production right now, especially the Caribbean Red® from Guatemala and the Dominican Republic.
“The Brazilian solo papaya is humming along despite the recent drought that has so adversely affected many others,” said Peter Leifermann of Brooks Tropicals. “Overall, we’re well positioned to promote both kinds of papaya throughout coming months.”
There is overall growth in papaya demand from the Asian and Latino communities in the U.S., especially regarding the Caribbean Red® variety. “Changing population demographics contribute to the growth,” said Leifermann, “but so too does the continued maturation of consumer pallets and the ever growing focus on healthy eating.” The value inherent in the larger Caribbean papaya continues to carry the category, but Leifermann noted the same consistent quality and flavor found in both the Caribbean Red® and the Brooks Solo Papaya continue to drive the fruit’s overall popularity.
Papaya can be very tricky to market without that “perfect” looking appearance that some other fruits display, so it’s a challenge. “Each piece of fruit can behave vastly different once harvested – even if they're from the exact same field and tree,” said Leifermann. “We continue to work on our nutritional and growing practices, and our post-harvest treatment and handling. After Mother Nature does her job, our work truly begins - educating the consumers and supporting the distributors with consistent programs that ensure availability and offer promotions.”
Additionally, the challenge of competing with locally produced fruits in the U.S. and across North America dictates lower prices for papaya. “However, annual increases in demand have had a stabilizing affect that is easier to work with. We’re happy to see continued good demand for the next few weeks,” stated Leifermann.
For more information:
Peter Leifermann
Brooks Tropicals