Melissa’s leader reveals 2027 produce trends

ORLANDO, FL – Robert Schueller, director of public relations at Melissa’s/World Variety Produce, Inc. BB #:111686 Los Angeles, presented his 2027 produce trends October 15, in Orlando at the IFPA Global Produce Show.

“Shoppers are looking for fresh foods that taste great, fit their budgets, and make daily meals easier,” Schueller said. “At the same time, interest in dietary variety, regional flavors, and sensory experiences is opening new doors for specialty produce.”

He said the following trends appeal to consumers looking for new experiences, value, quality, nutrition, and convenience:

• GLP-1’s Users: good news for the produce Industry (11% of currently in Sept. 2026), 8% in early 2026, 3% in 2024)
• Fiber:  gut & digestive health & illness prevention
• Protein:  includingplant based:  soy, bean, lentils & more.
• Sustainability: Organics & Functional Health Benefits:  Brain foods, cognitive health, best for environment, package consideration, & avoid waste
• Snacking/Bite Size/Ready to Eat Convenience: Easy off the counter or out of the fridge snack.
• Pre-shopping: Media & Dining Experiences: examples:social media hacks, online recipes,easy to learn, easy to create.  Duplication of dining experience.
• Dietary Diversity: Interest is moving beyond maximizing one nutrient. A wider rotation of fruits, vegetables, and other plant foods brings more variety to weekly meals.
• Global Flavors/Regional Flavor Discovery: Country specific to fusion of trendy flavors 
• A Taste for Tang: Tart citrus, vinegar and other bright flavors bring fresh energy to sauces, dressings and drinks.
• Fresh Food, Less Planning, Convenience: Ready-to-use ingredients and meal starters help shoppers cook with produce when time and energy are limited.
• Value Beyond Price: Shoppers weigh cost alongside taste, freshness and how many ways they can use what they buy.

Schuller also provided Melissa’s top specialty produce items:

1. Baby Dutch Yellow Potatoes
2. Ginger
3. Steamed Lentils
4. Honeyglow Pineapple
5. Chayote Squash
6. Gemstone Potatoes
7. Cherimoya
8. Steamed Baby Red Beets
9. Organic Papaya
10.  Baby Dutch Red Potatoes
11.  Dragon Fruit, white
12. Kiwano Melon
13. Baby Red Potatoes
14. Organic Ginger
15. Baby Bok Choy
16. Organic Turmeric
17. Passionfruit
18. Yellow Dragon Fruit
19. Chinese Eggplant
20. Organic Sweet Young Coconut