Deciduous Fruit

Deciduous means falling off at maturity and is generally used in reference to trees or shrubs that lose their leaves seasonally and shed other parts, like fruit, when ripe. Deciduous fruits typically grow on trees, bushes or vines and include grapes, apples, pears, peaches, plums, nectarines, apricots, avocados and kiwis. Deciduous fruits are a great source of dietary fiber, which helps the body lower cholesterol and protect itself from environmental toxins.

Del Monte® grapes are a well-known fruit worldwide, fitting into almost any lifestyle. Based on recent study by the United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”), Economic Research Service, since 1992, fresh grape consumption has grown 13% in the United States and, on average, Americans now consume 8 pounds of fresh grapes each year. Fresh grapes are a favorite quick, easy and healthy snack among consumers young and old. In addition to their delicious taste, a growing body of research on fresh grapes suggests that grapes may offer significant health benefits as well. Fresh grapes are also processed for the production of wine, raisins, juices and canned products. While California supplies the majority of total grape volumes, imports have made fresh grapes available year-round in the United States, with shipments mostly from Chile. Most U.S. production is marketed from May to October and Chilean grapes dominate the market from December to April.

In addition to grapes, we source stone fruit (apples, pears, peaches, plums, nectarines, apricots, avocados and kiwis) from company-owned and independent growers in Chile (approximately 6,400 acres), the United States, Mexico, Spain, Italy and New Zealand.