Sweet, easy-to-peel Cuties from Sun Pacific, a family-owned fruit grower, are back in stores and this December, rolling into McDonald’s Happy Meals, Mighty Kids Meals and as an a la carte menu item. This marks the first time that McDonald’s will offer a fresh, whole fruit side option in kids' meals.

"Cuties are a bit of West Coast sunshine for McDonald’s customers to enjoy, and parents can feel good knowing that they offer an excellent source of vitamin C and about one-quarter cup of fruit," Sun Pacific said in a press release. "Kids love them because they are sweet and easy to peel without the help of a grown-up."

McDonald’s and Sun Pacific have partnered to make Cuties available while in season, from December through March 2015.

 “Our partnership with McDonald’s allows us to share our sweet, easy-to-peel Cuties with even more people across the nation,” Victoria Nuevo-Celeste, vice president of marketing at Sun Pacific, said in the press release. “We’re eager to increase access to wholesome foods kids love and make history with McDonald’s by providing unpackaged, whole fresh fruit.”

The introduction of Cuties is the latest example of Sun Pacific and McDonald’s USA’s ongoing dedication to children’s nutrition and well-being. Cuties are a low-calorie snack and an excellent source of potassium, fiber and folate. They are also rich in antioxidants and packed with a number of vitamins.

In addition to the excitement with McDonald’s, Cuties are making their way back to stores with a new brand campaign, Unwrap Sweetness, which reminds everyone that the benefits of this fruit go beyond just nutrition and convenience. Cuties is activating a campaign that engages moms and kids with recipes, activities and content that fits a healthy, on-the-go lifestyle. The recently launched Unwrap Sweetness campaign includes terrestrial and Pandora radio, blogger partnerships and highly targeted, engaging social and digital media.

In addition to McDonald’s, Cuties can be found at most major grocery retailers in two-, three- and five-pound bags, as well as five-pound boxes at wholesale retailers. Cuties Juice and smoothies, which are 100 percent fruit and available in a variety of flavors, are available year-round.