[ fresh produce ]
BEST IN SEASON Pipfruit season is in full swing, with many varieties of apples and pears abundant. Persimmons are still in season until the end of July, so make the most of these beauties. A large volume of Green and SunGold kiwifruit is available this month. These varieties are also available in organic. Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, celery, leeks, silverbeet and spinach are all popular vegetables that should not be overlooked.
tinge with compact bud clusters. Cauliflower will have white heads that are clean and also compact, with fresh green leaves close to the head. Kale leaves should be crisp and green with firm stalks. Storage/handling: Broccoli and cauliflower will last out of refrigeration if they are kept hydrated for two to four days - for a longer shelf life, refrigerate. Keep kale refrigerated at all times. Nutrition: Broccoli, cauliflower and kale are all good sources of vitamin C, which helps support immunity and fight fatigue.
Tamarillos
“NAVEL ORANGES CONTAIN A GOOD SOURCE OF VITAMIN C WHICH SUPPORTS HEALTHY GUMS, TEETH AND SKIN.”
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FMCG BUSINESS - JULY 2021
Tamarillos come into their peak season during July and August. The hot weather conditions in many regions over the past two years have caused complications and most growers have suffered considerable tree losses. This will result in further quantity reductions from last year with the scarcity being reflected in higher prices. However, fruit is particularly sweet, full of flavour and offers a delicious, exotic fruit for consumers to enjoy in winter. What to look for: The main variety grown in New Zealand is the red tamarillo. Look for full colouration on the fruit body up to the stalk. A slight loosening and yellowing of the green stalk and slight softening of the fruit are all indicators of fully ripe tamarillo. Storage/handling: Tamarillos will keep refrigerated for two weeks, or one week unrefrigerated. Handle them with care to avoid bruising. Nutrition: Tamarillos are a good source of dietary fibre, which supports digestive health. They are also a source of vitamin B6, vital in allowing the body to utilise iron.
Brassicas - broccoli, cauliflower & kale These vegetables are available year-round but flourish in winter and consumer demand at this time is high. Display broccoli and cauliflower together and look out for broccolini (a hybrid mix of broccoli and Chinese broccoli) and broccoflower, (a hybrid mix of broccoli and cauliflower) to add extra variety and interest. There are multiple varieties of kale, however curly kale is the most commonly available. What to look for: Broccoli heads should be dark green or have a purple
Navel oranges New Zealand Navel oranges are the earliest maturing variety of the orange family and are available from June to December. About 75% of our supply is grown in the sun-kissed region of Gisborne. They are large, sweet, seedless, easy to peel and always popular. What to look for: Like all citrus fruit, Navel oranges do not ripen once harvested. Choose oranges that feel heavy for their size and have firm, finely textured skin with no soft spots. Storage/handling: Oranges attract attention simply because of their bright colour. Display so they are visible to consumers to encourage impulse buying. Nutrition: Navel oranges contain a good source of vitamin C which supports healthy gums, teeth and skin. They also contain potassium which helps with growth and development.
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