Nogales, AZ — Ta-De Produce is launching its new spring garlic from the lush Rio Sonora region a couple hours from its Arizona warehouses. Grown along the fertile, 150 mile Sonora river valley, this purple garlic variety, named the Rio Sonora Rose, is recognized by its purple-hued striping and with more moisture in its aroma.
“Many commercial and home chefs prize the brighter, fresher flavor of the early spring purple garlic. The fact that it’s grown so close to home is a bonus.” explains Ta-De president Robert Bennen, adding that many consumers today are aware that white imported garlic is typically bleached to ensure its bright color.
“Natural garlic is not bright white. Ours has the unique striped coloring associated with a heritage-style product. “Bennen says they are now in the planning stages to grow organic garlic for next season.
Garlic is known historically as “the stinking rose”, which inspired Bennen to name his company’s product after its distinctive growing region. “My mother’s name is also Rose, which adds to the whole flavor package,” he enthuses.
Garlic is one of the few produce items noting substantial growth during the past few seasons, with sales rising 7.5% and volume 4% from 2013 to 2014. (Fresh Trends). Ta-De is expanding its garlic acreage due to increased demand and sold-out situation last season. The item also complements the company’s expanding lines of Asian cooking greens.
Rio Sonora Rose garlic will be packed in 30# boxes and shipped under Ta-De’s new El Rey brand. Shipments are scheduled to begin May 1. For more information http://tadeproduce.com
Ta-De Produce is a third-generation, family-run produce distributor founded by Carlos Bennen in the 1950s. Longtime CEO Robert Bennen Sr, (“Robbie”) was a pioneer in the tomato import and repacking industry since the 1970s. Upon his retirement in 2012, son Bob took over leadership of the company. The company is known for its green beans, and also distributes bel, sweet mini and habaero peppers, cucumbers, eggplant tomatoes and Asian greens.
photo caption: Garlic fields in Rio Sonora 4/15
Source: Ta-De Produce