Demand for Apple Pears has been on a steady increase over the years; however, customers still seem to be a bit intimidated by the exotic fruit. Due to consumers’ unfamiliarity with Apple Pears, the cooking methods or preparation of the fruit is daunting. “Apple Pears are still a relatively unknown fruit in the produce aisle,” states Allred, “but they’re very juicy and crunchy which consumers love.”
Kingsburg Orchards promotes Apple Pears through taste tests which allow potential consumers to try the fruit before buying. Independent studies have shown only 4-5% of American consumers know what an Apple Pear is, but after a taste test 97% would purchase an Apple Pear again. “Consumers who are put off by how large the fruit is, or the consistency of its skin end up loving it,” adds Allred.
Apple Pear acreage has remained consistent over the last fifteen years along with the price of the fruit. “Our price has changed to be consistent only with demand,” explains Allred, “we want to give the consumers a fair price on a wonderful piece of eating fruit.”
Apple Pears are a hardy fruit, with a shelf life of two to three weeks. When cut, the fruit does not oxidize as apples do, and instead keeps a crisp white color. This attribute is useful within the food service and fresh cut industries as the fruit does not turn black or brown.
Only 10% of overall crop is exported, mainly to Canada and Mexico. Exporting to Asia is not economical for Kingsburg Orchards as the continent grows its own varieties of Apple Pears.
For more information please contact:
Chad Allred
Kingsburg Orchards
Tel: (559) 897-5132
Fax: (559) 897-4532
info@kingsburgorchards.com
www.kingsburgorchards.com