"The Kissabel® range of apples with colored flesh is unique in its diversity and sensory characteristics. It includes a range of varieties that differ in both flesh color - from pink to intense red - and fragrance, from more classic, balanced flavors to more intense varieties with berry notes. The range is also grown and marketed by some of the world's leading apple producers. Thanks to these characteristics, the Kissabel brand has established itself as the global market leader in the colored flesh segment," say Emmanuel de Lapparent, Program Manager at Ifored, and Jens Anderson, Marketing Manager at Elbe-Obst.
A gift from Kissabel to Freshplaza.
"Harvest volumes are still limited, production currently stands at a total of 3,000 tons, mainly in Europe, and will increase to 10,000 tons by 2026. In addition to Germany, Kissabel apples are grown in the best apple-growing regions in the UK, France, Switzerland, Spain, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, Chile, Argentina and South Africa. In Germany itself, the largest quantity is grown in the Altes Land fruit-growing region by the Elbe-Obst growers' association, while other growing areas belong to Obst vom Bodensee GmbH."
Some Kissabel® varieties can also be grown organically, but these are still in the study phase and are not available on the market. "The most common type of packaging is the 4- or 6-apple carton tray. In Germany, apples are also available in 4- and 7-kg bags. At certain times of the year, such as Halloween and the Backrot event, the German packaging is provided with special labels.
Demand is generally good, given the reduced quantities and the novelty aspect of Kissabel apples. "In the countries where the product is marketed, there is great interest and anticipation for the sales season. It is still a niche product, but with very good growth prospects. It is also important to emphasize that Kissabel does not compete with other apple varieties, but aims to create a new market segment to increase consumption."
One challenge in Germany would be to communicate the special properties of Kissabel to consumers. "This is a process that will take some time. We had volume increases during Halloween and the Baking Red event, the competition where consumers can send in their recipes for the public to vote on. The initiative is also being promoted in stores." Due to its characteristics, the Kissabel is a premium apple. The main consumer countries include the UK, Italy, France and Germany, although there has also been great interest from China this year.
Kissabel apples are produced and marketed by some of the world's leading growers, including Fenaco, Mesfruits, Blue Whale, VOG, VIP, Melinda, Rivoira, Worldwide Fruit, Greenyard Fresh UK, Elbe-Obst, Obst vom Bodensee, Montague Fresh, Yummy Fruit Company, Stemilt Growers, Moño Azul, Unifrutti and Dutoit, it added.
For more information:
Emmanuel de Lapparent
IFO
L’Anguicherie
49140 Seiches S/ Loir – FRANCE
Phone : +33 (0)2 41 32 14 34
Email: contact@ifo-fruit
https://www.ifo-fruit.com
Jens Anderson
Elbe-Obst Erzeugerorganisation r.V.
Bassenflether Chaussee 4b
21723 Hollern-Twielenfleth
Tel. +49(0)4141/9531-0
Email: [email protected]
www.elbe-obst.de