Melissa DelMastro
Demand for Tropical Fruit on the Rise
Whether it’s pineapple avocados, mangos, lychees, longan, guava, mamey, starfruit or dragon fruit, demand for tropical produce is on the rise. The growth in demand for tropical fruits can be attributed to rising consumer incomes and an increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of these items. Additionally, the rise of TV chefs using tropical produce items in their innovative menus has added to the craze, as these flavors are adding new takes to old favorites.
According to the latest U.S. Census, Hispanics and Asian Americans are experiencing the highest growth rate in the country (142 percent and 167 percent, respectively) between 2010 and 2050, and these cultures are big consumers of tropical fruit.According to Pew Research , by 2055, the U.S. will not have a single racial or ethnic majority. Diverse groups are in pursuit for unique and native foods, especially tropical fruits. Supermarkets and food services’ inclusion of these fruits in their aisles and menus provide positive expectations for farmers down through the supply chain and, of course, the consumers’ enjoyment of new fruits.
Southern Florida and California grow a variety of seasonal tropical fruits. The push though is for year-round products, thus relying on imports to fill the void.
You may find the Piñabar pineapple corer and spear machine and the MFJ Multi-fruit citrus juicer more often when you visit your local produce stand as tropical produce becomes more popular with a growing demand.