While organic bananas are readily available year-round, peak production in the Mexican growing regions has just started and will continue through the summer and into early fall. Producers say supplies are currently very good as weather conditions continue to be favorable.
"Peak production for our organic bananas runs from April through September," shared Mayra Velazquez de León, President and CEO of Organics Unlimited. "Our production is year-round, but April to September would be considered our peak production season. The Colima, Mexico region is in peak production right now as weather in Mexico is ideal for organic banana production this time of year. Banana supplies are very good overall. We are very pleased with where things are at right now and look forward to maintaining a strong supply of Organics Unlimited and GROW label bananas throughout 2019."
Demand in Asia outpacing global growth
According to Organics Unlimited, demand for organic produce in Asian markets is outpacing the growth in other regions. This includes tropical specialties like bananas. According to Velazquez de León, with the Asian organic market growing at a faster rate compared to global growth, the company sees it as a prime emerging market in organics.
"Organics Unlimited already does business in Asia through its BioFruit label in Japan, where our organics bananas are JAS certified," she said. "Asian markets are in search of organic products like Organics Unlimited bananas, plantains and coconuts as consumers in these areas align with the worldwide trend toward increased awareness and commitment to healthier eating. We expect this trend to continue, further expanding opportunities in Asia."
It's not just Asia of course where the demand for organic produce continues to grow and as Velazquez de León observes, the northern hemisphere spring seems to boost that demand further. "The demand for organic bananas continues to increase as consumers are making their voices heard when it comes to having healthy produce choices available for them to purchase. Wholesalers and retailers are listening while growers and distributors like Organics Unlimited are ready to satisfy those hungry requests. Things really ramp up everywhere this time of the year and we are excited about the opportunities that exist."
Challenges and opportunities
According to Organics Unlimited, one of the challenges facing the organic banana category is the continued low prices being offered, which has been seen as a challenge for all banana growers, especially organic producers. It means the company has to be innovative to try and stay ahead of the market and to continue to offer organically grown produce in a sustainable way.
"We are always fine-tuning how we do things at Organics Unlimited," Velazquez de León said. "This includes improving efficiencies of any scope because we won’t rest on our laurels. Staying competitive in a produce market where prices are being driven down by large multinational companies is a growing challenge that impacts the entire industry. Organics Unlimited is working hard to maintain its edge and continue to produce and supply the healthiest, best-tasting organic bananas around."
She concluded by sharing that despite the challenges, it has been a great start to the year and the company is looking forward to the busy summer and fall season ahead. "2019 is off to a great start for Organics Unlimited when it comes to both production and sales. We look forward to continuing this momentum throughout the year as we expand our presence in the U.S. and Canada as well as in Asia. The year is going by fast, but it has been a very good one to this point. Organics Unlimited anticipates a successful second quarter (Q2) and is preparing for an active trade show season this summer and fall. If you see our Organics Unlimited booth at an upcoming trade show, please stop by and say hello."
For more information:
Patrick Pierce
Ph: +1 (619) 906-5540
patrickp@osterads.com
www.organicsunlimited.com