Opal Apple Is Back And Brightening The Holiday Season

YAKIMA, Wash. – Opal® apple returns for its sixth season for a limited time at select retailers across the U.S. and Canada. Available in both organic and conventional varieties, Opals are known for a distinctively crunchy texture, a sweet yet tangy flavor and a natural resistance to oxidization —making them ideal for holiday entertaining and healthy snacking going into the new year.

“We’ve had fans asking for Opal apples since this summer and are so excited to fulfill this insatiable consumer demand just in time for the busy holiday season,” says Keith Mathews, CEO of FirstFruits Marketing, exclusive distributor of Opal apples. “After last season’s incredible growth, we’re looking forward to continuing our wonderful retail partnerships and extending our distribution and supply of Opal.”

The Opal program is fully supported at retail with high-graphic packaging, point-of-sale materials and merchandisers. Opal will also execute a robust marketing campaign including participation in local events in cities around the U.S. to personally connect with consumers.

In addition, Opal will once again present its Youth Make a Difference Initiative, which funds youth-based initiatives serving communities in the U.S. where youth (ages 6-25) take leadership roles in the project. The initiatives must address food security and politics, nutrition, agriculture or education. Last season, the grants amounted to $150,000 with more funding anticipated for the current season. Grant applications will be accepted starting in January at www.opalapples.com.

Grown in Washington, Opal apples are sold exclusively in North America by FirstFruits Marketing of Washington. This cross between Topaz and Golden Delicious stands out on the shelf with its lovely yellow color and great taste. Sweet to start with a tart finish, Opal has a satisfying amount of crunch in each bite. This Non-GMO Project verified apple is also highly resistant to oxidation making it less likely to brown. Available in limited quantities, Opal apples will likely run through March.

About FirstFruits Marketing of Washington

FirstFruits Marketing of Washington is a collaborative apple marketing company owned by growers. These growers share a commitment to producing high-quality fruit while balancing the demands of purpose, people, planet and profit so that a portion of profits can be donated to non-profit missions supporting the underserved. For more Information, visit www.firstfruits.com.

About Opal Apple

Opal apple is known as the apple with a purpose. Grown only in Washington by Broetje Orchards, this Golden Delicious-Topaz cross apple variety was introduced by FirstFruits Marketing in 2010 to wide consumer and media acclaim. Its distinctive color, flavor and texture are not the only qualities that make this product unique: Opal apple was created to make a difference in communities across the nation. Every year, FirstFruits Marketing donates a percentage of sales of every case of apples to worthy organizations that address issues like hunger, food safety, sustainability and the environment. UEB 32642 variety apples are grown exclusively by Broetje Orchards and distributed under the OPAL® brand name by First Fruits Marketing in North America.

Source: Opal Apple