Tru-Cape prepares to deliver first homegrown fruit from recently planted trees and describes variety as “exciting addition”
Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing is to launch the first locally grown Cosmic Crisp apples in South Africa, with the variety set to go on sale exclusively at Checkers from 7 September.
The launch marks the first fruit from Cosmic Crisp trees planted in South Africa to reach consumers.
Developed in the US from a cross between Honeycrisp and Enterprise, the variety has been introduced internationally on the strength of its appearance, texture and eating quality.
“Cosmic Crisp is an exciting addition to the South African apple offering, and we’re delighted that consumers will soon have the opportunity to experience it for the first time,” says Roelf Pienaar, managing director of Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing.
Pienaar said the introduction formed part of Tru-Cape’s efforts to assess new varieties and opportunities from around the world for their suitability under South African growing conditions.
“Bringing Cosmic Crisp to South African consumers reflects an important part of Tru-Cape’s role in the industry. As a leader in the South African apple sector, we continually keep abreast of new varieties and emerging opportunities around the world, carefully evaluating their potential under our local conditions,” he added.
“Our aim is to stay at the forefront of varietal innovation while ensuring that the choices we make deliver value for our growers and exciting, high-quality fruit for consumers.”
According to Tru-Cape sales director for Africa and the local market Johan Brink, the South African-grown fruit is currently at peak eating quality and is reaching stores at a time when relatively few other bicoloured apples are available.
Cosmic Crisp will be sold either flow-wrapped or in premium, resealable bags and displayed in refrigerated sections, while Tru-Cape is also planning tastings at selected Checkers stores.
