Bay of Plenty, New Zealand: New Zealand Kiwano grower Enzed Exotics has improved access to its sustainably grown fruit by beginning shipments direct to the US East Coast for the first time.
Relationships formed at The New York Produce Show in December have enabled the Bay of Plenty growers to establish a shipping base in Philadelphia.
Enzed Exotics owner Alan Hutchings says: “This is a very exciting development for us. Previously we shipped solely into Los Angeles. Now East Coast retailers and wholesalers can have the same direct access to our fresh Kiwano as our West Coast clients. This new base opens up opportunities for us to reach out to a thriving East Coast food scene.”
The season has already seen high demand for Enzed Exotics Kiwano, though wet and humid late summer conditions means hopes for a record yield may not be achieved.
Hutchings said demand for high-quality produce that could demonstrate its sustainable and ethical credentials was growing rapidly.
“People are starting to quite critically look at where the food on their plate comes from. We’ve been committed to natural growing for decades, and that long-term commitment is resonating with our customers and clients more than ever.”
He said Enzed Exotics Kiwano was grown using a sustainable farming philosophy of “mother nature approved.”
“Soil health is extremely important. We do not farm intensively and use crop rotation to ensure the soil is enriched by our harvest. We only use natural fish, rock dust and seaweed fertilisers pre-planting and during the growing process, and our crop is also hand weeded to avoid the need to use herbicides. We firmly believe this healthy, natural growing environment gives our fruit a better flavour and longevity.”
Enzed Exotics Kiwano are sold on a size basis (similar to avocados) in 9,11,12 or 15-count trays and have an exceptional shelf life – they will keep at optimum condition for 2 months or more post-harvest.
Hutchings said the Enzed Exotics brand had built its reputation on the premium quality of its fruit.
“Growing Kiwano is a bit of a calling for me. There’s a lot of pride in what we do, and I think that care shows in the end product. We have extremely thorough quality control and careful handling to make sure our customers only receive high quality fruit.”
The combination of a long shelf life and easy storage meant Kiwano was an easy fruit to manage. “They do not like the cold so should not be cool-stored, just kept at room temperature.”
Source: Enzed Exotics
