New citrus origin helps bridge seasonal gaps between hemispheres, offering Navel, Salustiana, and Valencia varieties with exceptional sweetness and juice content to European retailers
Fresh Del Monte has announced the arrival of its first shipments of Del Monte-branded oranges harvested and packed in the region of Salto, Uruguay.
The fruit is ready to be distributed across key European markets starting next week, it confirmed.
The group said that the launch marks a ”significant step” in its long-term strategy to offer high-quality and diversified fresh fruit categories 52 weeks a year to Europe.
“We remain focused on our strategy to supply European markets with top-quality, delicious Del Monte products 52 weeks a year,” said Jacopo Sica, senior director sales and operations EA and general manager Switzerland at Fresh Del Monte.
“This new citrus origin in Uruguay is a great example of our ongoing commitment to expanding our production capabilities.
”At Fresh Del Monte, we are constantly exploring new opportunities to grow and diversify our supply, ensuring we deliver the highest quality fruit by aligning with the best origins and seasonal windows.” Sica continued.
”This approach allows us to consistently offer our customers exceptional products all year round, thanks to our excellence in farming, a robust supply chain, and the dedication of our teams.”
Del Monte said the Uruguayan oranges stand out for their “exceptional internal quality”, with a Brix level consistently above 11.5° and an average juice content of around 40 per cent.
“These characteristics ensure a sweet, juicy, and aromatic profile that meets the expectations of even the most demanding consumers,” the group stated.
The fruit is grown under strict agronomic protocols, it said, harvested at optimal ripeness, and packed with care to preserve freshness and flavour.
“The sourcing landscape for oranges is evolving, with climate change and shifting weather patterns pushing us to explore new growing regions,” said Stefano Borria, senior category manager oranges at Fresh Del Monte.
“At Fresh Del Monte, we are constantly seeking new opportunities to ensure the best possible quality and continuity of supply.
”Uruguay represents a strategic addition to our sourcing portfolio, offering excellent fruit characteristics and helping us maintain year-round availability for our customers,” he noted.
The Uruguayan citrus season runs through late August, with product availability in Europe expected until the end of September.
Del Monte outlined that this allows it to bridge the seasonal gap between hemispheres and ensure continuous supply to its retail partners.
The oranges will be marketed under the Del Monte brand and will be available in all major European retail chains.
The portfolio includes Navel, Salustiana, and Valencia varieties, covering the full spectrum of uses, from fresh table fruit to juicing applications.
”This new origin is more than just a seasonal addition, it is a strategic milestone that strengthens Fresh Del Monte’s position as a reliable, year-round supplier of premium citrus,” the company said.
”It also reflects the company’s broader mission to invest in new agricultural frontiers, support local farming communities, and deliver safe, sustainable, and flavourful fruit to global markets.
”With this launch, Fresh Del Monte continues to demonstrate its ability to anticipate market needs, adapt to seasonal dynamics, and deliver excellence with passion and precision,” it added.
