Mexico is a key source for Robinson Fresh's year-round asparagus program. “To provide retailers with consistent volume and quality, Robinson Fresh manages asparagus product from four growing areas in Mexico,” said Category Manager Joe Dugo. “Currently, we are in the Mexicali region, which runs from mid-January through mid-April.”

Dugo said there have been a few harvesting delays primarily associated with cold temperatures and rain. “The entire Yuma Valley and northern Mexico have experienced unseasonably cold temperatures, which caused the volume to lag behind schedule,” he told The Produce News. “But a couple of warm weeks should allow the product to get back on track. Throughout these cold periods, production slowed a little. But the asparagus crop remained in good shape, resulting in minimal impact to volume and quality.”

Robinson Fresh markets Mexican asparagus to its global customer in the United States, Asia and Europe.

“Putting the right brand on asparagus can make a big difference, which is why retailers should carry a brand that consumers trust,” Dugo stated. “In addition to our proprietary Rosemont Farms brand, Robinson Fresh also supplies asparagus under the Green Giant Fresh brand. According to our consumer panel insights research in 2014, more than 80 percent of consumers identified Green Giant as a brand that delivers above-average to excellent quality asparagus.”

The company's Mexican asparagus programs continues to expand in response to marketplace demand. Dugo said Robinson Fresh makes it a priority to work with innovative growers in the region. “One of our Mexican growers, for example, has moved into a newer packing facility in Mexicali, which allows for expansion, additional bagging machines, and the means to obtain more food-safety certifications,” he commented.

“Our Mexican asparagus program will eventually become a 10-month program, spanning across four regions,” he continued. “This process has already started, as we have increased hectares in the San Quintin areas and have plans for expansions in three other regions.”