SALINAS, CA - Health is wealth, my friends, and Brussels sprouts are a prosperous investment plan. As the early months of the new year send shoppers in search of health-forward offerings to add to their carts, Ippolito International is flexing the strength of its robust Brussels sprouts program. Who better to divulge the details than the grower’s own Brussels Sprouts Commodity Manager Katie Dozier?
“The rains in Northern California caused a few minor challenges, but fortunately, with the scope of our program, we have many options to choose from and have some quality sprouts,” Katie told me just ahead of the New Year’s Eve holiday. “Our Mexico crop is starting off strong with good quality sprouts.”
Ippolito International currently has Brussels sprouts coming out of both California and Mexico. As the supplier notes, pricing for the category is trending slightly lower than last year.
With 2023 spurring increased demand for healthy offerings that appeal to newly set New Year’s resolutions, Ippolito International will be arming its grocery partners with promotable volumes and good quality to help capitalize on these opportunities.
“The Brussels sprouts category has now grown with so many choices in terms of presentation, whether it be cello microwaveable bags, mesh bags, family packs, and even whole stalks. With Brussels sprouts being so popular, it’s a great time for merchandising this popular item with recipe ideas,” noted Katie. “Brussels sprouts continue to be a high-growth category, and organic sprouts are contributing to that growth, so make sure to have an organic option for your shoppers. Right now, our organic crop is in full swing, with bulk and retail packaged options available.”
And in true AndNowUKnow fashion, we had to dig into strategic merchandising plays that retailers can harness throughout these early months of 2023.
“With the continued popularity of Brussels sprouts, it’s more than just a holiday or winter vegetable,” Katie assured. “With the abundance of cooking shows and social media showcasing the many recipes and cooking options for this wonderful vegetable, Brussels sprouts are a great year-round product to have on the shelves at all times!”
Keep following ANUK, where we’ll continue to bring you fresh produce updates all year long.
