Shipments of rambutan are set to arrive from Guatemala later this month, and early reports point to good volumes despite a late start to the season. The tropical fruit is gaining popularity in the United States, and it's finding its place among more established tropical imports.
“The 2016 season is beginning a couple of weeks later than usual, but volumes and sizes on the farms look good,” said Marc Holbik of Ecoripe Tropicals in Florida. “The season in Guatemala is to begin around May 23, and it should extend into November.”
Traditionally only found in Asian-American markets, the item is becoming more common in specialty stores. Throughout the season, Holbik said they'll bring in the fruit via air six days a week. That will supply extremely fresh product to retailers and help make the item as attractive to consumers as possible.
“Due to its growing consumer acceptance, rambutan has become a key item in our tropical fruit line,” noted Holbik. “Thanks to its nutritional value, simplicity to eat, and bright red color and exotic appearance, this item is bringing a lot of excitement and interest to produce departments, and works well next to tropical fruits such as dragonfruits, lychees, guavas, papayas, mangos, pineapples and bananas.”
