The majority of exotics are currently coming from Latin America: there are however also some alternative regions, like Israel. Producers there have increasingly been focusing on the cultivation of high-quality mangoes, in the meantime gaining notoriety in Western Europe. This week the first lots of the Aya variety will be flown into Germany, says Raimund Dieterich, CEO of Israel-specialties GmbH, based in Lenningen.
The Aya variety is the earliest variety from Israeli cultivation and they distinguish themselves by a very aromatic taste and a fruity orange pulp. “Our mango season now goes on until October and, depending on the seasonality, there are many variations,” says Dieterich. “The harvest forecasts are relatively good so far. In addition, we note that mangoes are gradually gaining in importance and the acreage is expanding corresponding. The pomelos cultivation has clearly diminished, because of the presence of Chinese products.”
'Red Sweety'
Apart from mangoes, Israel is also known for its high quality oranges. Dieterich looks back on a successful season there as well. There are still possibilities within Israeli cultivation: Jaffa oranges for example, could be produced more often and in more varieties, like the Cara Cara and the Valencia Late. Consumers would be happy to buy those.”
The Israelis are certainly ready to expand their product portfolio and to offer new varieties. Dieterich uses the red-pulped Sweetie as an example. "This crossing between orange and pomelo is usually on offer in green or yellow form. But last year our growers produced a red-fleshed variety that is certainly larger than the common varieties. This year, an interesting broadening of our range is again on hand, as from the end of this month organic limes will be imported from Israel."
Vegan customers
For more than 10 years Raimund Dieterich has provided his customers with a wide selection of Israeli products. Through online sales he deals directly with the consumer. Apart from citrus and exotics, dates are by far the most significant products in the fruit area. The clientele of the company exists both of friends of Israel and 100 percent vegan consumers.
For more than 10 years Raimund Dieterich has provided his customers with a wide selection of Israeli products. Through online sales he deals directly with the consumer. Apart from citrus and exotics, dates are by far the most significant products in the fruit area. The clientele of the company exists both of friends of Israel and 100 percent vegan consumers.
For more information:
Israel Spezialitäten
GF: Raimund Dieterich
Weilerstrasse 18
73252 Lenningen (Hochwang)
Tel.: 07026-7079
Fax: 07026-81160