Vero Beach, Fla.-based IMG Citrus plans to showcase its new white grapefruit at the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure.
The company bought 4,000 acres last year and now grows 50% of all white grapefruit in Florida, said marketing manager Caraline Jones. IMG is reintroducing the variety to the U.S. market, as it has been exported mostly to Japan in recent years.
“Florida white grapefruit is still remembered by some older consumers for its exceptional taste, sweetness and flavor,” Jones said. “However, younger consumers view this as a ‘specialty’ niche item that is seen as an heirloom variety.
“We carried out demonstrations and tastings this year at retail stores with extremely positive feedback regarding taste,” Jones said.
IMG started its white grapefruit program under its Happy Food brand in October, and availability continues through April. The company ships throughout the U.S., with a focus on the Southeast and East Coast markets.
“With high availability, this is an exciting opportunity to bring white grapefruit, a high-quality product, back to the U.S. market as a locally grown, heirloom product for retailers looking to differentiate and energize their citrus aisles with color and contrast,” Jones said. “Our white grapefruit is known for consistent quality because they are harvested from groves over 25 years old in the Indian River area, yielding exceptional taste and flavor. Demand is present, especially in the eastern U.S. and Canada.”
IMG is exhibiting at Southern Exposure at booth no. 650.
Check out more reviews of new products coming to the show at the following links:
Southern Exposure New Product Review: RedRoyals from Pure Flavor
Southern Exposure New Product Review — Long-Lasting Salad from FresH2O
Southern Exposure New Product Review: Rainbow Carrot Chips from Cal-Organic
Southern Exposure New Product Review: Chopped Collection from Eat Smart