At the upcoming Fruit Logistica 2024, Rijk Zwaan is showcasing some of the most exciting innovations in the fresh produce market. Among the highlights is the Tropical Sunshine watermelon, a strikingly bright yellow melon with a delectable sweet flavor. Developed through Rijk Zwaan’s breeding efforts and in partnership with retailers such as Woolworths, the Tropical Sunshine watermelon is already gaining traction in the market, adding vibrancy to supermarket shelves and delighting consumers. Its unique appearance and flavor profile are positioning it as a standout in the fruit category.
Another key feature at the event is the Tatayoyo®, a snack-sized, ready-to-eat pepper that has been awarded the Fruit Logistica Innovation Award 2023. This pepper is packed with flavor and is set to make its European debut this spring in Lidl stores, thanks to Rijk Zwaan’s collaboration with Scherpenhuizen in the Netherlands and Unica Group in Spain. The partnership aims to expand access to this delicious, bite-sized pepper, providing consumers with a healthy, flavorful snack option that fits into the growing trend of on-the-go eating.
Beyond product innovation, Rijk Zwaan emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships across the fresh produce value chain. The company works closely with its partners to create tailored solutions that address specific agricultural needs, from disease resistance to taste enhancement. A notable example is the partnership with Harvest House to develop a mini plum tomato that offers high resistance to the Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV), ensuring that farmers have a reliable crop while delivering the premium taste that consumers expect.
Additionally, Rijk Zwaan’s focus on resilience and taste is evident in their snack cucumber offering, which combines excellent flavor and a deep green color with strong resistance to mildew—benefiting growers such as the Fresh Valley Group.
Rijk Zwaan’s commitment to innovation is not limited to product development. The company views partnerships as essential to driving progress and enhancing the entire supply chain. Their collaborative approach helps ensure the availability of fresh, healthy vegetables for consumers worldwide.
At Fruit Logistica, Rijk Zwaan is not just about showcasing products, but about connecting with partners and industry professionals. The event provides a platform for discussing how joint innovations can shape the future of fresh produce, ensuring that the global supply of healthy vegetables meets consumer demands.
Moreover, Rijk Zwaan invites participants to visit their Retail Centre in Berlin, offering valuable insights into retail trends, consumer preferences, and innovations that can support the future of the fresh produce sector.
Rijk Zwaan is leading the charge in fresh produce innovation, offering products like the Tropical Sunshine watermelon and Tatayoyo® snack peppers that meet consumer demand for quality, taste, and convenience. Their commitment to strong partnerships, resilience in crops, and a focus on collaboration ensures the continued growth and evolution of the agricultural industry. As the sector adapts to new consumer trends, Rijk Zwaan’s efforts to stay ahead of the curve will help shape the future of fresh produce worldwide.
