Following a successful sales campaign in Europe and North America, the development of the Kissabel® apple range is advancing in the southern hemisphere. The apple, known for its distinctively colored flesh ranging from pink to deep red, is being tested and harvested in Australia, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa by IFORED programme partners.
According to Emmanuel de Lapparent, head of the IFORED programme, international partners are currently evaluating which Kissabel varieties are best suited to local climates and markets. "In terms of increasing global availability, we are making steady progress," de Lapparent noted.
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Among participating countries, Australia is the most advanced. Montague Farms has started harvesting yellow-skinned apples with pink flesh, as well as varieties with both red skin and red flesh. Additional varieties under trial are being assessed for flavor and flesh coloration.
While the product remains in the early stages of commercial marketing, promotional activities have been undertaken in Australia to introduce the apples to consumers. These include television coverage and public sampling events, as well as planned collaborations with food outlets and influencers. According to Montague Farms' Marketing Manager, Michelle Hau, the initiative is aimed at preparing for larger-scale volumes in future seasons.
In South America, Argentinean grower Moño Azul and Chilean producer Unifrutti are continuing variety trials to assess agronomic performance. Marcelo Galardini, Sales Director at Moño Azul, stated that the current focus is on identifying suitable cultivars and initiating local market awareness. Chilean trials are centered on red-fleshed and red-skinned types, with some samples being sent to Brazil for evaluation, according to Cristian Matte, Commercial Manager at Unifrutti Chile.
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In South Africa, Dutoit Group completed its first semi-commercial harvest from orchards planted in 2023. The group focused on red-fleshed and red-skinned varieties. According to Technical Manager Willie Cotze, the apples showed good coloration and textural development in warmer regions. The fruit will be introduced to a selection of local retailers and media representatives for feedback.
New Zealand is currently in the testing phase with Kissabel apples through its partner Yummy Fruit, with results yet to be reported.
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These ongoing efforts across the southern hemisphere are part of a broader strategy to evaluate the suitability of Kissabel apples in diverse climates and expand their presence in global markets.
© KissabelFor more information:
Marta Cilibrasi
Kissabel
Tel: +39 340 8643526
Email: [email protected]
www.kissabel.com
