New Woot Froot line offers fresh pre-packaged peaches and nectarines
Fresh Fruit Cuts is introducing Woot Froot, a line of processed fresh peaches and nectarines that will be available through October.
“Woot Froot pairs the great taste of fresh nectarines and peaches—one of America’s top 10 fruits—with the ease and convenience of fresh cut and the added benefit of consistent quality and flavor,” says Kim Gaarde of Fresh Fruit Cuts.
Until now, stonefruits like peaches and nectarines have been absent from the value-added category—which includes pre-cut, pre-packaged and portion-controlled products—because of difficulties associated with processing and packaging.
Gaarde worked through her company, Fruit Dynamics, for seven years to develop the proprietary process for selecting, processing and packaging the fresh-cut peaches and nectarines. She says the products can deliver a 15-day shelf life.
Only certain varieties of peaches and nectarines make the Woot Froot cut, Gaarde adds. The company tested more than 500 varieties before finding the select few that provide the desired taste and texture. Retail consumer packs are available in 3-oz. and 18-oz. trays; bulk packages are available for foodservice.
“Three out of five consumers prefer to purchase ripe fruit,” Gaarde says, “but two out of five don’t know how to go about it. Woot Froot takes the guesswork out of purchasing stonefruit, a category that is loved by Americans, but has been relatively flat for the past several years. We aim to change that and add a little excitement.”
Fresh Cut Fruits will make Woot Froot available through October this year and is preparing for year-round availability in 2014 and beyond.
