Kiwiberries have all the taste and appeal of their bigger cousin the kiwifruit, but can be enjoyed with much less effort. It’s no wonder that they’re gaining traction in North American retail stores. Good quality kiwiberry production is going strong, transitioning from Chile’s ending season to New Zealand, which is just starting.
The two countries will cross over for about two weeks, “and then it’s all about New Zealand products,” said Karen Caplan, President and CEO of Frieda’s Specialty Produce. “We’ll have fruit from Oregon and British Columbia later this year.” New Zealand fruit will be available until April.
No peeling required
Often referred to as baby kiwifruit, grape kiwi or cocktail kiwi, these small hairless fruits are sweeter than kiwi and easy to enjoy quickly, no peeling required. They also contain an immense amount of vitamin c – more than oranges even, plus vitamins A, E, B2 and fiber.
Quality has been very good, according to Caplan. Prices remain around the same as last year, but she noted that exporters are doing a better job of communicating promotional pricing in the peak periods.
For more information:
Karen Caplan, president and CEO
Frieda's Specialty Produce
Tel: 714-733-7660