At Exotic Roots, the demand for exotic fruits hasn't yet increased as Christmas approaches. However, Tim Struckman is still pleased. Tim owns this Dutch wholesaler that specializes in exotic products from India. Demand has been reasonably good in recent months. It remains stable from the various retailers, supermarket chains, and wholesalers the company supplies.
Okra
"For many of these specialties, demand towards Christmas hasn't increased yet. People need to get to know them even better first. They must become even more familiar with them," Tim explains. "It would be nice if these products could become as popular as avocados. But, as time passes, greengrocers are already demanding more of these Asian products."
Okra is Exotic Roots' top product. It's widely used in Moroccan, Indian, and Creole dishes. "As far as unusual exotic fruits go, we have two types of guava - the standard kind and red guavas. This fruit is very healthy. Cut it into five pieces, and the whole family has enough vitamins for the whole day. We also have sapodillas, which are like apples. Asian specialty shops sell these. We have many more special products, all of which we fly in from India. Using air freight means we can offer our fruit and vegetables fresh to our clients. That's a big advantage over sea transport."
Mais
As mentioned, demand is stable, and enough supply is being sent from India. "That country had heavy rainfall in week 47, but its impact on production is over. We get more exotic fruit and vegetables from there as winter approaches here. It's only asparagus beans that are having some quality issues," says Struckman.
The Amla is a unique product in Exotic Roots' assortment. "This is an extraordinary fruit. It looks very much like a grape, but you mustn't gobble it down in one go. Cut it into pieces. At first, the Amla tastes bitter. After a few seconds, you get a nice, spicy sensation in your throat. You can immediately feel your body absorbing this fruit's many vitamins."
Amla
"We'll definitely have the Amla on our Christmas menu. Along with sapodilla for dessert. Its caramel flavor goes well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Many chillies are traded at this time of year. This product is, after all, widely used in kitchens," concludes Tim.
Tim Struckman
Exotic Roots
Röntgenlaan 11
2719 DX Zoetermeer
Tel: +31 (0)6 20 150 148
E: Tim@exoticroots.nl
www.exoticroots.nl