Kumato wins Superior Taste Award
Carl Collen | 05 May 2010 | Print | Download | Comment | Share
Mastronardi Produce has been handed the prestigious award by the International Taste and Quality Institute
The 2010 Superior Taste Award, handed out by the Belgium-based International Taste and Quality institute (ITQI), has been handed to Mastronardi Produce for its Sunset-branded Kumato brown tomato variety.
"The Kumato is about as unique as a tomato can get, full of flavour, juicy and an aroma like no other," said group president Paul Mastronardi. "With the ITQI awarding our Sunset Kumato with its Superior Taste Award, it further exemplifies that a tomato is more than just a piece of fruit, it's an experience."
Launched in 2009, the Kumato has seen success both at retail and foodservice levels, with demand exceeding production. As a result, Mastronardi has doubled its planted acreage for the 2010 campaign.
An increased number of Kumato demonstration sessions have taken place at retailers throughout the spring, the group said, with a "phenomenal" lift in sales the result, Mastronardi said.
"Customers are in awe of the authentic taste of the Kumato, with a sprinkle of sea salt, they are the perfect hors d'oeuvres for any get-together," noted Chris Veillon, director of marketing at Mastronardi. "The positive consumer comments we have been getting back from the demos and daily emails we receive has been outstanding."