"We should start exporting our fresh pitahayas to the US in a maximum of 6 months, so we are currently working on a campaign to introduce the Ecuadorian fruit to this market. The pitahaya is well known and has a good demand, but people consume the variety that comes from Mexico and Nicaragua. Now consumers will also be able to choose our fruit," said Bayron Ortiz, from Organpit.
According to Ortiz, the long shelf life and sweet taste of the Ecuadorian pitahaya would differentiate it from the pitahayas that are currently in the US market. "Our fruit has a minimum 20 days of storage, while those originating in other countries have a maximum shelf life of 15 days. Additionally, our fruit has a higher Brix degree, i.e. it is more palatable for most consumers. Even though we are still analysing the market to get to know the preferences of American consumers, we believe our fruit will be accepted very quickly," said the spokesman.
The Ecuadorian producer's will take their first step in the US market during the PMA fair which will be held in Orlando this year. There, they will give a tasting and sampling of the pitahaya, both in its fresh and dried presentations. "The dehydrated pitahaya will be our other flagship product. The global trend is to consume healthy products because consumers are increasingly becoming more aware of what they eat. The dried fruits are a response to this trend," Ortiz added.
"The product is designed so that it can be consumed as a healthy snack while watching television or as a snack for children. We already sell this product in the local market and it has been well accepted by consumers. The pitahaya is a seasonal fruit and dehydration would allow us to make the fruit available throughout the year," said the representative of Organpit.
For more information:
Bayron OrtizOrganpit
T: +593 9 91559834
E: bortiz@organpit.com
www.organpit.com