The Ojai Pixie Tangerine season is officially underway, and this year, the Pixie harvest looks especially promising, with a strong harvest of smaller fruit that is already Brixing up to 18.
"We have a decades-long relationship with the Ojai Pixie Grower's Association. We're trying to make sure that 52 small family farms are sustainable and continue with California farming and growing. That's what's important to us," says Robert Schueller, Melissa Produce's PR director.
© Melissa's Produce
The Ojai Valley has a rich history of citrus farming dating back to the 1880s. Today, the Ojai Pixie Growers Association maintains this proud tradition, using minimal interventions and preserving the land with care. "Every tree is tended to by hand, and each fruit is clipped off with clippers by hand," notes one of the growers, adding that they use minimal spraying, only when necessary, and no nets, allowing pollinators to thrive freely in the orchards.
With year-over-year growth of +33 percent in both 2023 and 2024, Melissa's has experienced its two highest years ever for Pixies. This is a clear indicator that Ojai Pixies continues to see increasing consumer demand. Retailers who act now to promote Ojai Pixies will tap into this growing momentum. Those who join the program benefit from a suite of marketing support, including signage, social media assets, promotional videos, photography, and recipe ideas curated to help highlight the story and quality of Ojai Pixies.
The start of the organic Harry's Berries strawberry season is also here and available exclusively through Melissa's for retailers nationwide.
© Melissa's Produce"For years, Harry's Berries were a hidden gem in Southern California, sold only at farmers' markets where crowds would line up just to get a taste," said Schueller. "We're honored to bring these incredible berries to retailers across the country."
While premium products like Harry's Berries carry a higher price point, Melissa's notes that the fresh berry category continues to show growth. With a 9.1 percent increase in 2024, it ranks among the top 15 categories by dollar change. Consumers are also increasingly seeking premium, flavorful, and organic options.
The name "Harry's Berries" comes from the farm's founder, Harry Iwamoto, who established the family farm in 1967, bringing with him traditional farming methods passed down through generations in Japan. Today, the farm continues to honor Harry's legacy with a focus on sustainable, organic farming practices that prioritize the health of the soil and the protection of beneficial pollinators. With no synthetic chemicals used, the berries ripen naturally on the vine, resulting in a strawberry that has an intense sweetness and flavor.
Harry's Berries are in season now through May or as nature dictates. Melissa's offers them in 16/1 lb clamshells.
For more information:
Robert Schueller
Melissa's Produce
Tel: +1-800-588-1281
roberts@melissas.com
www.melissas.com