“We are a year-round grower, packer and distributor of fresh tropical items from Central America, South America and the Caribbean,” says Jose Roggiero with Florida-based Freshway Produce. The company offers a wide selection of tropical products, including Chayote, Calabazas, Yuca, Ñames and Malanga. “We are vertically integrated when it comes to Malangas, but we also have a strong network of growers in Central America, the Caribbean and Mexico to grow other types of tropical items,” shared Roggiero. Vertical integration sets us apart from competitors
“We grow our Malangas year-round in the rainforests of Ecuador,” continued Roggiero. “This is a perfect micro-climate to develop a good size and high quality product. Being vertically integrated sets us apart from competitors. We have control over the value chain and it allows us to deliver the best quality product possible.”
The growing conditions in Ecuador allow for a longer product shelf-life. Upon arrival in the US, the shelf-life of Malangas is about two to three weeks. From Ecuador, the product is shipped to the US by ocean containers to the company’s distribution center in Miami.
Photo: Jose Roggiero showing Malangas, Chayotes and Plantains
Malanga is a healthy alternative to potatoes
Tropical roots as well as Chayotes and Calabazas have a high nutritional value that makes them a healthy fit for day-to-day nutrition. Right now, Hispanic, Asian and Caribbean ethnic groups are the largest consumers of tropical items such as Malanga. “However, more and more Americans are starting to become interested,” said Roggiero. “You say potato, We say Malanga”. You can eat mashed Malanga instead of mashed potatoes or Malanga fries instead of French fries. It is a healthy alternative for the potato.” Freshway’s products are mostly available at Shoprite stores in the Northeastern part of the US, but go as far West as San Francisco and as far South as Texas.
In addition to growing and sourcing in Central America, Freshway Produce also supports local farming in Florida. “We source local tropical items such as dragon fruit, mamey, thai guava, star fruit and others,” concluded Roggiero.
For more information:
Jose Roggiero
Freshway Produce
Tel: 786-300-4485