Guava production in the Mexican growing regions is moving along well, as growers report generally good conditions in the growing regions. Supplies are down compared with the average, due to frost damage to trees last year. However, growers are optimistic as so far this season, there has been only positive news and the trees are now steadily recovering.
"This year has seen much improved conditions for guava growers," said Alberto Diaz of Spring Valley Fruits. "In Mexico there are two main regions, Aguascalientes and Michoacán, although Zacatecas and Estado de Mexico are also growing regions. All of these regions grow the one type of guava, simply called the Mexican guava. We have not seen any weather issues in recent months, which is giving an opportunity for the trees to recover. In the past couple of years we have faced severe weather issues such as hail storms and frosts that have caused big losses. We expect yields to be slightly lower than average, however there is optimism that things have now improved."
Demand continues to improve each year
Ever since Mexican guava imports to the US began in 2008, suppliers say that demand has grown each year. The challenge, and also the opportunity, is that many US consumers are yet to try guava. Therefore, the emphasis is now on educating the consumer in order to tap a further potential market.
"Demand for guava in the US has been steadily growing," Diaz noted. "Most people in the US haven't tried or don't even know what a Guava is. Spring Valley Fruits has a brand called 'Premium Guava'. This may sound generic but that is exactly the idea. We are trying to push guava into new consumers and new markets. We see an opportunity to not only promote our brand, but also guava as a fruit in general."
In addition, Diaz shared that Spring Valley is bringing out a standup pouch this year, with the aim of attracting children to eat guava. "We are launching a new standup, re-sealable bag," he said. "The design is focused for kids, with the aim of encouraging kids to eat healthy, to eat more fresh fruits and to enjoy new flavors."
Promoting guava as a healthy fruit
In order to spread the guava message, growers are also looking at promoting guava as a healthy fruit. There are many different varieties of guava, all grown in various parts of the world, with Mexico one of the many countries trying to promote their variety, particularly to US consumers.
"In my opinion, Guava has a lot of potential to grow," said Diaz. "It has great health benefits due to the elevated content of vitamin C, much more so than most citrus fruits. It is available year round, with other varieties grown in several different regions and countries around the world, from Asia to Africa to the Middle East to South America and the Caribbean. Therefore, Mexican Guava has a challenge to invite potential customers to try Mexican Guava and adopt it. Many people don't know what a Guava is and that is a huge opportunity - a big potential market willing to experience new flavors, new aromas and to eat healthy foods."
For more information:
Alberto Diaz
Spring Valley Fruits
Tel: +1 (956) 618-2239