© Bolthouse Fresh FoodsBolthouse Fresh carrots are grown year-round across different growing regions selected for their ideal climate and soil, enabling consistent supply and high-quality product. "We grow carrots in California's San Joaquin Valley, Arizona, Washington, and Georgia," says Karen White with Bolthouse Fresh Foods™. The company recently announced its expansion into Georgia with a new facility in Sparks, serving customers in the Southeast. "Our multi-region growing approach allows us to maintain steady volume and consistent quality throughout the year," she added.
© Bolthouse Fresh Foods
Versatility
In general, demand for carrots continues to be strong, supported by their versatility across so many everyday uses and occasions. "Carrots remain one of the most consistently purchased vegetables, regularly ranking within the top 10 vegetable items," commented White. As shoppers lean into holiday cooking, comfort foods, and entertaining, carrots show up across every occasion—from baby carrots on charcuterie boards to carrot sticks with wings and football spreads, to soups, roasts, and weeknight meals. "This keeps the category highly relevant this time of year."
Thanksgiving demand
The Thanksgiving holiday week is one of the most important periods of the year for the carrot category. "This time of year sets the pace for strong category performance, driven by holiday occasions and lifestyle trends that carry through December and into January." During Thanksgiving, carrots—whether baby carrots, sticks, or whole carrots—play a key role across the holiday table, showing up in stuffing mixes, braised dishes, roasted sides, and stocks. In December, that mix of holiday cooking and entertaining keeps demand elevated. By January, consumers refocus on healthier routines, keeping the carrot category strong in the New Year. Their versatility across snacking, meal prep, simple weeknight cooking, and back-to-basics nutrition reinforces carrots as an everyday staple after the holidays.
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Consumer behavior
Consumer behavior in the produce section has continued to evolve as shoppers look for more ready-to-make and ready-to-enjoy meal options. They are approaching the department with a desire for convenience, speed, and fresh solutions that help them get meals on the table faster. This shift has encouraged a broader range of pre-cut and ready-to-use formats. "For us, it's exciting to support this momentum and play an even more meaningful role in how consumers shop the category." Bolthouse Fresh continues to assess how to best support its retail partners while meeting consumer needs. "This means offering a balanced portfolio—from traditional carrots for cooking to convenient, ready-to-use formats that fit busy lifestyles."
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Family of value-added products.
Value-added offerings
As shoppers continue to look for convenient, ready-to-use options in produce, Bolthouse Fresh's value-added offerings are helping meet that demand. Side Dish Sizzlers™ provide a simple three-ingredient solution for quick, flavorful side dishes with artisan sauces. Carrot Shakers™ bring easy, seasoned snacking right into the produce aisle, giving shoppers new ways to enjoy carrots throughout the week. And looking ahead, carrot fries—launching in early 2026—will not only expand the category but also tap into the fast-growing air-fry segment, giving consumers a modern, fun, and better-for-you option that fits the way they're cooking today.
Value-added offerings that simplify mealtime continue to resonate with shoppers, and that's especially true as the season gets busier. Soup n' Stewin'™ carrots continue to gain momentum this time of year. As temperatures fall, shoppers look for simple, hearty solutions for soups, stews, and slow-cooker meals. Baby carrots continue to be the hero of everyday snacking and holiday party platters. Party Sticks are a standout item as well. For December, a little holiday cheer is sprinkled into the produce aisle with a festive Reindeer offering—a fun, once-a-year item that sparks nostalgia and gives families a joyful way to celebrate the season.
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Reindeer carrot snacks.
For more information:
Karen White
Bolthouse Fresh Foods
Tel: (+1) 661-616-4900
[email protected]
www.bolthousefresh.com
