Entering the banana market in our times is not a simple task for new producers, as the large supply and competition on the part of experienced exporters is a hurdle. The only way to have an opportunity is to differentiate yourself, but how do you differentiate your bananas from the competition?
The Ecuadorian company American Farmers decided to accept this challenge and take a step forward, turning its organic and conventional bananas into a product with added value.
"After several studies and research, we proposed the theory that, because of its high content of sodium and potassium, seawater could contribute nutrients to the fruit. So we decided to conduct a test, applying the water both to the soil and to the banana itself. The result was surprising; our fruit had a higher Brix degree, a greater weight and a lot more nutrients than the bananas from nearby plantations," assures José Uyaguari, representative of the company.
With the hard evidence at hand, neighbouring producers quickly showed their interest. "More and more growers are interested in our concept, and now we are working together with several producers. It is a process that takes over 4 months, but once that period has passed, we will go from 65 hectares to 400 hectares available for organic and nutraceutical conventional bananas," confirmed the spokesperson.
"We are mainly targeting European countries, where the fruit's added value is appreciated, although we have recently received a visit from Israeli importers and in the following weeks some Japanese investors will also be invited. We firmly believe that our product will be successful globally, as a banana that provides a solution to nutritional and health problems," concluded Uyaguari.
For more information:
Jose Uyaguari
American Farmer organic
T: +593 968151340
E: [email protected]
