Wawona Update

As we wrap up this year, and reflect on such an incredible year, celebrating our 60th anniversary with our employees, vendors, partners, customers, and friends – we have so much to be thankful for! We are pleased to end the year with a bountiful season of peaches, strawberries, blueberries and more! We have some exciting new innovative products that will be coming into fruition in the new year, and we cannot wait to share them with all of you! We want to say thank you for your continued support of our business, and we want to wish everyone a Christmas full of peace, love, and joy. Happy Holidays!

Industry Trends

Pears, known for their sweet and juicy flavor, take center stage this December in celebration of National Pear Month. This observance shines a spotlight on the versatile and delectable pear, encouraging consumers to explore the various pear varieties available. Whether enjoyed fresh, baked, or incorporated into salads and desserts, pears embody the essence of winter indulgence. Beyond the seasonal celebration, broader trends in the fruit industry include an increasing demand for exotic and unique fruit options, as consumers seek new flavors and experiences. Health and wellness continue to be pivotal factors, driving the popularity of nutritious fruits like berries, avocados, and citrus. 

Frozen Fruit 101

Frozen pears are a convenient and nutritious alternative that retains much of the fresh fruit’s essential qualities. The freezing process locks in the pear’s vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a year-round option for those looking to incorporate this fruit into their diet, especially when fresh pears may not be in season. These succulent fruits are an excellent source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. Frozen pears offer a versatile ingredient for smoothies, desserts, and baked goods, providing a burst of natural sweetness without added sugars. 

Wawona Update

Wawona Frozen Foods has so much to be thankful for! We completed our fast and furious season on a high, celebrating not only our 60th anniversary, but celebrating our employees with an Employee Appreciation Celebration! We were able to honor our valued employees and recognize so many that have given so much to our business. Wawona Frozen Foods would not be where we are today, and who we are today without our incredible employees. Wawona is and will always be a family-owned business, and our employees are our family. We are beyond grateful and thankful for each and every one. 

Industry Trends

In recent years, the frozen fruit industry has witnessed significant growth, driven by a global shift towards healthier lifestyles and increased consumer demand for convenient and nutritious food options. One prominent trend within this sector is the rising popularity of frozen peaches. Consumers are increasingly drawn to the convenience and year-round availability of frozen peaches, which can be seamlessly incorporated into smoothies, desserts, and various other creations. The freezing process locks in the fruit’s freshness and nutritional value, making frozen peaches a practical and versatile choice for health-conscious individuals. Additionally, the surge in interest for plant-based diets has further fueled the demand for frozen peaches as a natural and flavorful ingredient. 

Frozen Fruit 101

Frozen fruits have become a staple in modern kitchens, offering a convenient and nutritious alternative to fresh produce. One fascinating aspect of frozen fruits is the preservation of their nutritional value through the freezing process. Contrary to common perception, frozen fruits can often retain more vitamins and antioxidants than their fresh counterparts, as they are harvested and frozen at their peak ripeness. Moreover, frozen fruits contribute to minimizing food waste, as they have a longer shelf life compared to fresh produce. From frozen berries to tropical delights, these icy treats are not only delicious but also offer a burst of health benefits year-round.

Industry Trends

The food industry is constantly evolving, driven by changing consumer preferences and global trends. One notable trend is the growing emphasis on health and wellness. Consumers are increasingly seeking out healthier options, including plant-based and organic foods, as well as products with clean labels and minimal processing. 

Sustainability is another key focus, with a rising awareness of the environmental impact of food production. This has led to a surge in demand for eco-friendly packaging, locally sourced ingredients, and reduced food waste. 

Additionally, technology is playing a pivotal role, with the rise of food delivery apps, online ordering, and smart kitchen appliances reshaping the way we access and prepare food. As the food industry continues to adapt and innovate, these trends are likely to persist, shaping the way we eat and interact with food in the years to come.

Frozen Fruit 101

Frozen fruit is a nutritious and convenient addition to your operation for several reasons, including: 

1. Frozen fruit is available year-round, ensuring you have access to a variety of fruits even when they are out of season.
2. It retains most of its nutrients during the freezing process, making it a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
3. Frozen fruit has a longer shield life compared to fresh fruit, reducing food waste.
4. It’s versatile and can be used in smoothies, desserts, and as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, making it easy to incorporate.
5. Frozen fruit can be a cost-effective option, as it often comes in larger bags and can be more budget friendly than fresh alternatives.

Wawona Update

Wawona Frozen Foods is still in FULL SEASON SWING! We are getting peaches in by the truckloads and slicing, dicing and freezing them into our favorite peachy treats! Wawona also completed our SQF (Safe Quality Foods) Audit at both our Clovis and our Cedar (Fresno) facility. Both facilities passed with flying colors! Having an excellent SQF audit score, helps our business and shows our customers, vendors and partners that safety and FOOD SAFETY is number one at Wawona! 

We are looking forward to celebrating our Employees at our upcoming Employee Appreciation and 60th Anniversary Celebration in October!

Industry Trends – Frozen Fruit

Frozen fruit is a convenient and versatile ingredient that can be used in a multitude of ways. Whether you’re serving up a quick breakfast or a refreshing dessert, frozen fruit comes to the rescue. Toss a handful into your morning smoothie for a burst of flavors and natural sweetness, or stir them into yogurt or oatmeal. For a simple and healthy dessert, blend frozen fruit with a touch of honey or yogurt to make a vibrant sorbet or a creamy fruit ice cream. Frozen fruit can also be added to baked goods like muffins, pancakes, or fruit crisps. Don’t forget its utility in cocktails and mocktails as well – frozen fruit makes for excellent colorful and flavorful garnishes. With frozen fruit on hand, you can easily elevate your dishes and enjoy the taste of ripe fruit year-round. 

Learn more about our Mixed Frozen Fruit. 

Frozen Fruit 101

Why frozen fruit? Frozen fruit retains its nutritional value, making it a nutritious choice for incorporating fruit into one’s diet. When fruits are frozen, they are picked at their peak ripeness and quickly frozen, locking in their natural vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

This preservation process helps prevent nutrient degradation, allowing frozen fruit to retain much of the same nutritional content as fresh fruit. With the convenience of frozen fruit readily available year-round, it becomes easier for individuals to enjoy the health benefits of a variety of fruits, contributing to a balanced and wholesome diet. 

Wawona Update

July is here and peach season is finally underway! With Mother Nature being a little cooler this year, our harvest for peaches has been pushed back significantly! We are still processing our delicious strawberries from the coastal regions and are now excited to bring on our wonderful seasonal employees to help with the ramp up in production as peaches arrive! 

Be sure to stop by our Peach Tree Fruit Stand, located on the corner of Minnewawa and Nees from 9am till 6pm Monday thru Saturdays and on Sundays from 10am till 4pm. Fresh Fruit and all of the frozen goodies, perfect for summer!

Industry Trends

July is National Blueberry Month, a time to honor this nutritious and vibrant fruit. Blueberries have gained tremendous popularity in recent years, and their trend shows no signs of slowing down. Not only are they delicious but also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and essential vitamins. Blueberries have become a staple in smoothie bowls, yogurt parfaits, and baked goods, as people increasingly embrace their health benefits and versatility. 

Their vibrant blue hue, sweet-tart flavor, and incredible nutritional profile have earned them a special place in modern food trends. Moreover, with the increasing emphasis on healthy-eating, the demand for fresh, frozen, and dried blueberries has been on the rise. During the month-long celebration, explore new recipes and discover the countless ways to incorporate this fresh ingredient. 

Read more: Blueberry Food Tech Megatrends

Frozen Fruit 101

Frozen fruit is an essential staple in any kitchen, offering convenience, versatility, and numerous health benefits. Rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, frozen fruit contribute to a healthy immune system, improved digestion, and overall well-being. From blending them into smoothies and to adding them as toppings, it’s a convenient and cost-effective way to ensure you always have access to the nutritional benefits of fruit, no matter the time of year. 

For frozen fruit fun facts, continue reading: 

• Freezing fruit is a natural preservation method that dates back centuries. Ancient civilizations, such as the Romans and Greeks, used to freeze fruits in the snow or ice to enjoy them out of season. 
• Studies have shown that the freezing process helps preserve essential vitamins and antioxidants, making frozen fruit as nutritious as fresh fruit.  
• Frozen fruit is typically frozen using a process called “flash freezing.” 
• Good quality frozen fruit is often free from any added preservatives or sweeteners.

Industry Trends 

Frozen strawberries have gained immense popularity among health-conscious individuals and food enthusiasts alike. These delightful berries are picked at their peak ripeness and quickly frozen to lock in their vibrant color, flavor, and nutritional value. One of the main reasons for their popularity is their versatility. There are various types of frozen strawberries available in the market, including whole berries, sliced strawberries, and strawberry puree. Each type offers a unique texture and can be used in a wide range of culinary creations, from smoothies and desserts to sauces and toppings.

When it comes to health benefits, frozen strawberries are a nutritional powerhouse. They are loaded with antioxidants, including vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promotes healthy skin. These berries are also a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, frozen strawberries are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent choice for those looking to manage their weight or incorporate healthier options into their diet.

In conclusion, the popularity of frozen strawberries stems from their delightful taste, versatility in various culinary applications, and their impressive array of health benefits. These frozen delights are a great addition to any diet, providing a burst of flavor, nutrition, and convenience all year round.

Frozen Fruit 101

IQF, or Individually Quick Frozen, is a revolutionary freezing technique that offers immense advantages to restaurants. With IQF, each food item is frozen separately, ensuring that it retains its individual shape, texture, and nutritional value. This technology enables restaurants to store a wide variety of fresh fruits without compromising on quality or taste. The individual freezing process prevents the formation of large ice crystals, resulting in minimal damage to the food’s cell structure. The benefits of IQF include extended shelf life, reduced food waste, and increased convenience, allowing restaurants to offer consistent high-quality fruit while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

Wawona Update

​​Wawona Frozen Foods is gearing up for a busy fruitful season! With the current peach crop production, Wawona is looking at a 2-week delay before our production facilities will run at full capacity! Wawona is anticipating our delicious first of the season peaches will show up for processing the 2nd week of June! 

 Earlier this month, Wawona Frozen Foods celebrated its 60th Anniversary with an Anniversary Gala! Reflecting on our past and celebrating our future, the Wawona team and the Smittcamp Family celebrated the business with family, friends, employees, customers, vendors, growers, and community supporters. It was a night to remember, and we are so thankful for all those who celebrated with us! Cheers to 60 years and here’s to 60 more!

Industry Trends 

The food industry is constantly evolving, and the trends of today are likely to be vastly different from those of tomorrow. In 2023, the food industry is looking to be far more ethical, sustainable, and health-conscious than ever before. 

As consumers become more conscious about health and wellness, they are increasingly looking for healthier options when it comes to their meals. Plant-based proteins, vegan alternatives, organic ingredients, and locally sourced produce have all grown in popularity over recent years as people look for ways to eat better without compromising on taste or quality. Additionally, opting for plant-based proteins instead of animal products helps reduce water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions associated with meat production.

Convenience has also become a top priority for many diners who want ready-made meals that can be prepared quickly and easily at home. By planning meals in advance and using leftovers creatively, we can save money while also helping the planet at the same time.

With all these changes taking place in the food industry, it’s important to stay up-to-date with what’s happening so you can make informed decisions about your diet.

Frozen Fruit 101

Want to buy frozen fruit but don’t know enough about them? Here’s four facts about the benefits of using frozen fruit and IQF.  

1. Convenience: Frozen foods are convenient as they can be stored in the freezer and used as needed, saving time and effort in food preparation. 
2. Nutritional value: Frozen fruits and vegetables can be just as nutritious as fresh, as they are often frozen at the peak of ripeness and retain their nutritional value. 
3.  Long shelf life: Frozen foods have a longer shelf life than fresh foods, making them a great option for those who want to stock up without worrying about spoilage. 
4. IQF technology: IQF (Individual Quick Freezing) technology allows for the preservation of individual pieces of food, preventing them from sticking together and making it easier to portion out. 

To learn more about the benefits of frozen fruit and IQF, check out The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI).

Wawona Update

Wawona Frozen Foods has been in FULL BLOOM the past few weeks as our wonderful orchards have been covered in pink peach blossoms! Even with mother nature’s recent rain storms, our crop is looking good for the 2023 season! Wawona is gearing up to celebrate our growers this month at our annual Grower’s Luncheon, where our over 80 growers will hear from our President and CEO on what our trends, production and crop value will be for the year!

Industry Trends 

As consumers are becoming more eco-friendly and environmentally conscious,  businesses must have sustainable efforts if they want to be successful. According to Food Executive Industry, “It is essential for today’s conscientious customers that the brands they support are making decisions that are positively impacting the environment today and for the future.

What are some ways your business can be more sustainable? Here’s 5 of the biggest practices business have been doing:

1. Prioritize ESG – “Utilizing environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) is an indispensable part of profitable growth strategies.” 
2. Adopt packaging alternatives – “Brands that implement sustainable packaging alternatives for their products have found that 60-70% of consumers are willing to pay more for less climate impact.”
3. Save water and energy – “In 2023, we will see the accelerated adoption of efficient steaming technology, water reuse systems that reduce the processors’ water, energy, chemical usage, and more.”
4. Reduce food waste – “Technological innovation is necessary to find new solutions to reduce food waste. Technology providers that address this problem through their products create a ripple effect through the supply chain, helping their food and beverage manufacturing customers contribute to a better, more equitable world.”
5. Cell-based protein innovation – “Data from two comprehensive new studies found that cell-based protein could cause up to 92% less global warming and 93% less air pollution, and use up to 95% less land and 78% less water compared to conventional beef production.”

Read more about Food Executive Industry’s ideas for ways to be a more sustainable business here.

Frozen Fruit 101

Looking to add some health-conscious, fruit-filled snacks to your menu?  Nutritionists love frozen fruit because:

• They don’t contain additives
• They retain their nutrient levels
• They are versatile for meals and snacks

By offering healthy snacks, you’ll attract health-conscious customers that appreciate nutritious, low-calorie alternatives. Here are some of our best healthy snack ideas that use Wawona’s fresh frozen fruit:

• Pineapple Mango Sorbet: This healthy snack whips up fast, only needing two hours to chill. Sorbets are a great menu item for in-between courses or as a light, refreshing dessert.
• Freezer Fudge with Strawberries: A healthy take on a decadent treat, this freezer fudge combines frozen strawberries, almond butter, coconut oil, and maple syrup for a guilt-free snack.
• Berry Yogurt Swirl Popsicle: These sophisticated popsicles blend berries, strawberries, or blueberries with dairy-free yogurt for a cool snack or dessert that caters to the vegan crowd.
• Fruit Smoothies: Combine all of your favorite Wawona fruits and blend to perfection! 
• Frozen Yogurt Bites: A five-healthy-ingredient snack, these frozen yogurt bites can substitute any fruit with honey, granola, and yogurt for a cool and balanced bite.

Wawona Update

Wawona’s sales team is settling back in the office after a great travel down to San Diego, California for the annual AFFI-CON! Every year, AFFI (American Frozen Foods Institute) hosts a convention where our sales teams have business meetings, one on one, from sunup till sundown!  The AFFI-CON gives the Wawona team an opportunity to check in with our current customers, and make new connections and obtain new customers all while planning out our production to meet our customers needs! It’s the catalyst to our year and we can’t wait to get our delicious fresh frozen peachy products out to our customers!

Industry Trends

March is National Frozen Foods Month! The development of frozen foods nearly 100 years ago revolutionized the food industry by keeping perishable items “good” for prolonged periods of time. Starting in 2022, there is a growing trend in consumer appeal for these frozen foods as, “people now also prefer frozen fruits and vegetables, which enable them to enjoy even the seasonal delicacies throughout the year.”

Additionally, in the period of 2022-2027, this industry is expected to grow 3.5% yearly as the “The demand for convenient food products is the major factor driving the frozen food market in North America, as these food items reduce cooking, preparation, and clean-up efforts and time for consumers.” So why not celebrate National Frozen Foods Month by checking out Wawona’s frozen fruits with the highest-quality performance across a range of menu applications.

Read more here: Frozen Food Trends

Frozen Fruit 101

The benefits of frozen fruit are endless. Frozen fruits are a convenient and delicious way to eat fruit, capitalizing on the fruit’s peak nutritious values. We have highlighted the benefits of frozen fruit below:

• Frozen fruits are easy to prepare: Save time prepping and cleaning by ordering pre-cut frozen fruit.
• Frozen fruit reduces consumer food waste: Frozen fruit doesn’t spoil in the freezer, so this fruit can be used for long periods of time. Unused portions can be returned to the freezer to be used at a later date. This reduces food waste and saves money.
• Frozen fruit is nutritious: Fruits are harvested and quickly flash-frozen within hours to lock in key nutrients, vitamins, and minerals like Riboflavin, Vitamins C & E, Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc, Copper, Iron, Fiber, and Phenolics.

Understand the important role that frozen fruit plays in a healthy eating pattern. For more information, check out The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI).

Wawona Update

Wawona is excited to celebrate February, the month of LOVE! A few reasons to LOVE Wawona Frozen Foods – did you know that one of Wawona’s company pillars is community service? Wawona gives back to its community in a number of ways!

1. Provides fruit cups to almost ALL fundraiser walks, school carnivals and sporting events! Do you want frozen fruit cups at your next fundraising/school event? Reach out to Wawona to see how we can help! info@wawona.com
2. Wawona’s employee’s come together in the fall for an Employee Giving Challenge to support and raise funds for Valley Children’s Hospital!
3. Wawona Frozen Foods hosts the annual Peach Party at the Old Town Clovis Farmer’s Market where we give out FREE samples to our community, family and friends in attendance!

We love Wawona Frozen Foods and we hope you do too!

Industry Trends

Did you know it is Berry Fresh Month?

Berry Fresh Month is celebrated every February. It brings the beauty of berries and their nutritional benefits to our attention and spreads awareness about various types.

Wawona Frozen Foods offers fresh frozen strawberries that are plump, juicy and flavorful. Our strawberries are hand-picked at ripened maturity to ensure a bright color and tender texture of the finest quality of fruit available. We also offer blueberries which undergo the Individual Quick Frozen (IQF) process to seal in the natural flavor and nutrients.

We also have several unique blends of mixed fruit – from traditional 3- and 4-Berry Blends to a kaleidoscope of colors and flavors in the Spectrum Blend.

The flavor and health benefits of berries make it a favorite of foodservice operators. They are a key ingredient in pancakes and breakfast cereals, in baked goods, such as muffins, sauces, glazes for entrees, and smoothies. Wawona is proud to be the premium supplier of different berries, which are all a great source of antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber.

Frozen Fruit 101

Want to buy frozen fruit but don’t know enough about them? Here’s four facts about the benefits of using frozen fruit and IQF.

1. Convenience: Frozen foods are convenient as they can be stored in the freezer and used as needed, saving time and effort in food preparation.
2. Nutritional value: Frozen fruits and vegetables can be just as nutritious as fresh, as they are often frozen at the peak of ripeness and retain their nutritional value.
3. Long shelf life: Frozen foods have a longer shelf life than fresh foods, making them a great option for those who want to stock up without worrying about spoilage.
4. IQF technology: IQF (Individual Quick Freezing) technology allows for the preservation of individual pieces of food, preventing them from sticking together and making it easier to portion out.

To learn more about the benefits of frozen fruit and IQF, check out The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI).