Immokalee, Fla. – Lipman, North America’s largest open field tomato grower, has started harvesting its Ripe Bites grape tomatoes and will start harvesting its Crimson Queen round tomatoes after the Thanksgiving holiday. Both varieties are grown exclusively in Florida. Developed by Lipman’s research and development team, these seasonal varieties continue to be in high demand by consumers and foodservice operators.

Recognized by their rich flavor and deep red hue, Crimson Queen and Ripe Bites were created to enhance traditional round and grape tomato varieties. Characterized by a red interior, long shelf-life and high lycopene levels, Crimson Queen delivers an increased flavor without sacrificing the consistency of the variety while Ripe Bites have a deep red color and high brix content.

“Our Crimson Queen and Ripe Bites continue to be our most popular tomato varieties, and we look forward to growing them throughout the fall season,” said Darren Micelle, chief operating officer. “These tomatoes are farmed exclusively in Florida due to the need for a specific environment, making the spring and fall an exciting time for our consumers and foodservice providers.”

Ripe Bites are exclusively grown in Lipman’s 5-acre, retractable-roof greenhouses in Naples, creating the most protected environment available for the delicate variety.

For more information about Lipman, visit www.LipmanProduce.com.

About Lipman

Lipman grows tomatoes and vegetables throughout North America, providing dependable year-round fresh produce through an integrated network of people and facilities in research & development, farming, processing, and repacking. Farms in Florida, South Carolina, Virginia, California and Mexico – totaling tens of thousands of acres – allow Lipman to grow and ship fresh produce 365 days a year. Based in Immokalee, Fla., Lipman is an industry leader in sustainable agriculture, food safety and the delivery of high-quality produce. For more information, visit www.LipmanProduce.com.

Source: Lipman