Plantains continue to see growing demand in the U.S. “We’re seeing nine to 10 percent growth annually so the outlook on plantains is looking really good. We see that level of growth continuing,” says Robert Schueller, director of public relations for Melissa’s/World Variety Produce.
Melissa’s/World Variety Produce brings in its plantains, a cooking banana, from both Ecuador and the state of Nayarit in Mexico so it can maintain supplies year-round. And unlike a typical banana, which is sold in “hands”, plantains are sold as singles.
Expanding the customer base
“The Hispanic population is the core customer for plantains-- approximately 85 percent go to that core customer. However, people outside of that customer base have become more familiar with the product and it’s also being used in foodservice applications. People are learning about it and learning how to cook with it,” says Schueller, who notes that plantains account for approximately seven percent of the whole banana category. “That’s a significant number as the number two banana type here in the U.S.”
As for pricing on plantains this season, it is stronger than this time last year. “Taking into consideration the inflation rates here in the U.S., about 11 percent in the last year with all costs on the rise, plantain pricing this year is consistent with the current inflation rate,” says Schueller. “It seems like all produce has increased from five to 15 percent.”
For more information:
Robert Schueller
Melissa’s Produce
Tel: +1-800-588-1281
roberts@melissas.com
www.melissas.com