CASTROVILLE, Calif. – As a result of the recent widespread frosts in California, highly flavorful artichokes known as Frost Kissed™ artichokes are now in stores for a short time.
“The impact of frost on artichokes is similar to how human skin reacts to sunburn,” said Joe Feldman, vice president of sales and marketing. “Frost turns the outside layer of the artichoke dark brown, and then it flakes and peels.”
Once cooked, the brown outer layer is gone resulting in the soft green artichoke people are familiar with.
“Frosting is strictly a cosmetic condition,” Feldman said. “While the brownish color may not look pretty, Frost Kissed™ artichokes actually taste wonderful. The cold weather concentrates the natural artichoke flavors into a more intense, nutty flavor.”
Because Frost Kissed™ artichokes look different than green artichokes, Ocean Mist Farms is implementing an education program to teach shoppers about how good they taste.
The company has information on its website with pictures and recipes and is sending that information to all members of its Artichoke club.
Ocean Mist is also sending display cards to the retail customers who are stocking Frost Kissed™ artichokes in their stores the new few weeks.
“A Frost Kissed™ artichoke is a very unique item that we don’t have every season,” Feldman said. “Because they are so seasonal, we have to teach shoppers to look for them and be sure to buy them during the short time they are in the stores.”
Artichokes are Frost Kissed™ when the temperature drops below 32 degrees. Following a freeze, artichoke plants take two to three weeks to start producing frost free artichokes again.
For more information visit www.oceanmist.com.
About Ocean Mist Farms
Ocean Mist Farm’s growers are focused on meeting the needs of their customers and consumers. That means they are committed to the highest standards in the industry for food safety, quality, service, innovation and sustainable responsibility. Ocean Mist Farms is four generations of family farmers who lead the artichoke category and grow a full line of fresh vegetables year round.
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Source: Ocean Mist Farms