Imported volumes of yellow dragon fruit are currently low due to it being the beginning of the season.
The yellow fruit that Weston, FL-based Delina Fresh ships comes from Ecuador, the only country certified to bring in the exotic fruit. Delina also ships the more commonly seen, but often more popular, white dragon fruit. However, larger quantities will be available in approximately two weeks, says Delina’s Jim Burnette. Delina is currently shipping yellow dragon fruit in 2.5 and 4.5 kg boxes.
Increased supplies will be welcome given that demand has grown for the fruit. “The demand has increased because of its increased popularity with consumers,” says Burnette.
The health factor
He also adds that consumption of dragon fruit will continue to increase thanks to consumer education. Additionally, coming out of the pandemic, consumers are more interested in healthy eating and dragon fruit is high in antioxidants, vitamins C and A and also contains Omega 3 fatty acids. But in general on exotic fruits, Burnette says education is helping boost consumption of other tropical fruits including carambola (also known as star fruit) and mamey sapote.
Meanwhile, demand is dictating stable pricing currently and Burnette sees that stability continuing, even with greater volumes arriving.
That said, there are still continued challenges in the distribution of produce because of the effects of COVID-19. “Others are experiencing increased shortages of transportation and labor to make these items available, but Delina Fresh has managed to overcome these obstacles,” adds Burnette.
For more information:
Deborah Dijkhuizen
Delina Fresh
Tel: +1 (954) 306-4487
[email protected]
www.delinainc.com
