In the early 2000s, Dole Food Company began work on developing a new pineapple variety aimed at diversifying the category. After 15 years of conventional breeding at its La Ceiba farm in Honduras, the company is introducing the Colada Royale pineapple, a variety of Ananas comosus that has cream-colored flesh and flavor notes described as similar to coconut and piña colada.
The variety will debut during the IFPA Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, California, on October 16–18, 2025, and will arrive in North American retail outlets in October.
© Dole
According to Dole, the Colada Royale was bred using natural methods and is intended to provide a different flavor profile from existing pineapple varieties. The breeding program in La Ceiba has been overseen by Roberto Young, a Honduran plant breeder who has worked with the company since 1997. He described the release as the culmination of years of selective breeding: "As a pineapple breeder, I do much of my work quietly since it can take 10, 12, or even 15 years to create a new hybrid through natural processes – and only a very small percentage of the thousands we try ever make it to market. So, the Colada Royale is special. It will be my legacy."
Nutritional analysis indicates that the Colada Royale has the same fiber, vitamin C, and bromelain content as other pineapples in Dole's lineup but contains two and a half times more vitamin B6 per cup. This nutrient is linked to metabolic functions and hemoglobin production.
To support its introduction, five recipe applications have been developed, including Pineapple and Coconut Carpaccio, Bruleed Pineapple with Coconut Cream and Macadamias, and Spicy Yuzu-Pineapple Prosecco Punch.
The company also announced that a percentage of proceeds from sales of the new pineapple will go toward building a community center for farm workers and their families in La Ceiba. The center will provide healthcare, language classes, and vocational training.
The Colada Royale joins Dole's other pineapple lines, including Tropical Gold, Royal Hawaiian Tropical Gold, Golden Selection®, and Organic Fair Trade Certified pineapples.
© DoleFor more information:
Bob Ochsner
Dole
Tel: +1 949 233 0984
Email: [email protected]
www.dole.com
