Star fruit ripe for retail holiday promotions, says Tierra Suelta

Retailers looking to boost holiday produce sales can capitalize on the seasonal allure of star fruit, with strong volumes of Florida-grown star fruit are now available, says Miami-based tropical fruit grower and importer Tierra Suelta.

“Festive stars shapes are everywhere during the holidays, and star fruit is a fun way to jazz up holiday meals and brighten winter tables,” Steve Stutz, principal and sales lead for Tierra Suelta, said in a news release. “Tangy and sweeter than citrus, star fruit can enhance any dish from salads to main courses to desserts.”

Vertically integrated, Tierra Suelta says its cooling and packing facility is adjacent to its farms in Homestead, Fla., so fruit goes from the tree to the cooler without delay. Combined with its in-house logistics team, the company says it is able to ensure enhanced food safety and product quality, which extends shelf life and reduces shrink for retailers.

“We were fortunate the storms that came through Florida this year missed our groves. Here in peak star fruit season, we have an abundant supply of beautiful, premium-quality fruit,” said Frank Abreu, principal for Tierra Suelta, who oversees production. “Having a full-time agronomist on staff helps us reduce stress on the trees and allows us to maximize fruit flavor and productivity.”

Tierra Suelta will be shipping strong volumes of star fruit through the end of January either loose or in 2-pack clamshells and can offer retailers custom packing configurations too, the release said.

“Because we are in full control of our operations, we’re able to customize packs for our retail partners to help them stand out and offer shoppers what they prefer,” Stutz added.

Tierra Suelta says it is also currently shipping Florida-grown mamey and Thai guava.

“Mamey quantities are a bit tight right now, but we have fruit and are fulfilling all orders,” Stutz said. “Mildly sweet and crunchy, our winter crop of Thai guava is looking strong, with volumes building every week.”

Mamey, with its rich flavor profile and custard-like texture, is a cherished Caribbean specialty fruit, the release said. Thai guava, a favorite fruit throughout Southeast Asia, is growing in popularity in the U.S. because of its mild and pleasing flavor and crispness similar to an apple.

Tierra Suelta is a woman- and minority-owned, vertically integrated farming business that grows and ships tropical fruits from its headquarters in Miami, the release said.