Hala Fruit is still an unfamiliar name for many. Bud Holland has been offering this exotic fruit - sometimes called an exploded planet - as part of its assortment for a few weeks now. "Customers expect us to regularly offer exclusive, new products, and Hala Fruit is certainly a new eye-catcher," says this Dutch company's Jaco Plooster.
They import this fruit from Indonesia. "Just under a month ago, we started with a few pieces, which quickly increased. It's, of course, quite challenging to get started with such a niche product. Nevertheless, Hala Fruit has become a welcome addition to the product range we import from Indonesia."
Bud Holland supplies its assortment, consisting of 700 different products, to wholesalers all over Europe. "Our clients who supply the hospitality industry are most interested in Hala Fruit."
"Europe is becoming more multicultural, and migrants are interested in products from their country of origin. That's also why we want to offer our buyers as many different types of fruit as possible," says Jaco.
The fruit, also known as pandan or screwpine, grows on palm-like trees. The fruit slightly resembles a pineapple, with the leaves also being used in Asian cuisine. It is added to rice and curry dishes and desserts. Pandan can complement various dishes.
Hala Fruit can be eaten and used in several ways. "The fruit contains hundreds of segments attached at a core. These segments are pulled off the core, and you can squeeze the sweet fruit with your teeth. However, if you candy the fruit and other red fruits, you can make juice from Hala Fruit. Plus, since it's a true eye-catcher, it's a beautiful decorative item. So, it's quite multifunctional," Jaco concludes.
For more information: 
Bud Holland
67 Transportweg
2676 LM, Maasdijk, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 174 535 353
Email: exotics@bud.nl
Website: www.bud.nl