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Melissa's in sixth season with Ojai Pixie tangerines
United States
Sunday 30 March 2008
"We introduced the Ojai Pixie tangerine to America in 2002," said Robert Schueller, director of public relations for Melissa's/World Variety Produce in Los Angeles. "We are now entering our sixth season, and we are geared up for the continued increase in demand."
Mr. Schueller said that the Ojai Pixie is "the best tasting fruit out there." He described the flavor as a cross between a King and a Dancy tangerine.
"They have all the attractive features that consumers are looking for in a tangerine," he said. "The Pixie is seedless and easy-peel. It is low in acid and high in sugar. Overall, its profile and supersweet citrus flavor make it the perfect tangerine."
The Ojai Pixie tangerine is grown in the rich soil of the central-eastern California region of Ojai, where it was developed about 20 years ago. The variety is relatively new to the marketplace. At one time it was known only as a local or backyard fruit in a small town in California.
Today, the commercial groves are arranged in an east-to-west direction to allow for longer days of sunlight, which helps to intensify the fruit's flavor. The season runs from March through late May or early June. The fruit does not contain preservatives, nor is it waxed.
"This special fruit cross-merchandises perfectly with other specialty citrus items, such as kumquats, Uniq Fruit, Meyer lemons, Key limes and other high-end products," said Mr. Schueller. "The program is underway now, and product is available for nationwide distribution."
Mr. Schueller said that the Ojai Pixie is "the best tasting fruit out there." He described the flavor as a cross between a King and a Dancy tangerine.
"They have all the attractive features that consumers are looking for in a tangerine," he said. "The Pixie is seedless and easy-peel. It is low in acid and high in sugar. Overall, its profile and supersweet citrus flavor make it the perfect tangerine."
The Ojai Pixie tangerine is grown in the rich soil of the central-eastern California region of Ojai, where it was developed about 20 years ago. The variety is relatively new to the marketplace. At one time it was known only as a local or backyard fruit in a small town in California.
Today, the commercial groves are arranged in an east-to-west direction to allow for longer days of sunlight, which helps to intensify the fruit's flavor. The season runs from March through late May or early June. The fruit does not contain preservatives, nor is it waxed.
"This special fruit cross-merchandises perfectly with other specialty citrus items, such as kumquats, Uniq Fruit, Meyer lemons, Key limes and other high-end products," said Mr. Schueller. "The program is underway now, and product is available for nationwide distribution."
