First consumer testings overwhelming acclaim
Erica discussing fruit attributes development potential with visitors to Fashion foods exhibition at Mystery Creek
About 10,000 taste tests of BERICA and MONDAJU were conducted at the Rabo Bank paddock to plate showcase at the NZ National Farm Field days, Mystery Creek near Hamilton.
For Fashion Foods this exercise provided the first substantial cconsumer taste test. Tasting took place over 4 days 15 – 18 June when thousands of RABO clients as well a public visited the farm field days.
Visitors were offered slice samples of both varieties. Universal endorsement of the strong flavours and high visual appeal was resounding. Preference for either BERICA or MONDAJU ran around 50/50, but choice was always clear for one or the other. Tasters generally considered BERICA sweeter and strong flavoured reminiscent of the parent Heritage Gala, and MONDAJU in a flavoursome space of it’s own with a discerning flavour and hint of acidity.
The favourable independent insight from this substantial taste trial matches research over the past decades that led to the selection of the two apple varieties, and confirms consumers identify stronger flavours than currently available with the Royal Gala Apple.
Fashion foods showcasing at Rabo Banks “paddock to plate” exhibition Mystery Creek 2016
Damien O’Connor MP and opposition Primary Industries spokesman supporting Fashion foods at NZ National Farm field days
Fashion Foods talking with interested visitors at Field days
