HOUSTON — The Viva Fresh Expo celebrated its 10th anniversary in a big way, presented by the Texas International Produce Association at the Marriott Marquis Houston-Texas April 10-12. The event highlighted the importance of increased consumption of fruits and vegetables and the critical role of the Tex-Mex corridor through presentations, conversations and, of course, good food.
The National Mango Board wants to advocate for increased mango consumption year-round, kicking off with its Cinco de Mango campaign, as well as upcoming promotions with Disney for the “Lilo & Stitch” live-action movie, and its Joy Ride mango food truck for on-site promotions. The board also offers education resources and product promotion for retailers.
And while summer is near, Angie Thomas, retail consultant for the National Mango Board, said the organization has a back-to-school promotion planned for retailers.
Other conversations at Viva Fresh stemmed around mango varieties and seasonality.
“We want to keep mangoes top of mind [for retailers],” she said.
It was all about the craft lemonade at the Trinity Fruit Co. booth, which people rave about thanks to its no added sugar, said Kristyn Lawson.
The grower-packer-shipper of citrus, stone fruit, pomegranates and mandarins upcycles its fresh fruit into its juices.
“We're farmers making juice,” Lawson said.
Mariani Nut Co. showed off its new relationship with Jared's Cleaner Living, which develops sustainable snacks. Jared's Cleaner Living uses Mariani's almonds and walnuts for its products.
“It's a line extension and new concept,” said Brad Ryan, regional sales manager for Mariani Nut Co.
Rocco Reds on-the-vine tomato was the hot topic at Pure Flavor's booth. Mike Glass, director of sales for Pure Flavor, said the Rocco Reds feature a bright crimson red color and are great for culinary uses, such as sauces and salsa, for that chef at home.
Pure Flavor calls Rocco Reds “the chef's tomato.”
“It has a much higher flavor profile than any roma,” Glass said.
RCF Distributors, the U.S.-based distribution arm of El Grupo Crespo, said a hot topic at Viva Fresh is its crop report, and booth visitors could get information face-to-face on mango availability.
Tom Argyros, sales manager for RCF Distributors, said there will be a little gap with packing plants closing for the Easter holiday. He encourages his customers to get orders in.
“You don't want to get shut out of Cinco de Mayo promotions,” he said, adding that since Cinco de Mayo falls on a Monday and promotions would likely occur the week before, it's critical to have orders in soon.
RCF Distributors also offers dried mango as well as fresh citrus and pineapple. This is the first year for pineapple availability; Anthony Verdin, general operator and logistics for RCF Distributors said it's had a good reception in the marketplace.
“Everyone is happy about it,” he said.