Giumarra Wenatchee is confident it can keep up a strong season for Chilean-grown Carmen pears in the U.S. market, with a variety offering flavor and value to customers.

The cultivar was originally bred in Italy by crossing the Guyot and Bella di Giugno varieties, but the current crop was grown in Linares, Chile and has a short period of availability from February to March.

"This is the second season we have offered the Carmen pear and have seen great success with customers who are looking to offer their consumers a fresh, new choice in the pear category,"  Giumarra Wenatchee division manager Jason Bushong said in a release.

"Our size offering is varied and makes the Carmen perfect for snacking, or salad and appetizer recipes."

Sold in single-layer cartons, the company said the fruit high brix and an attractive red-orange blush on a green-yellow background. The Carmen pear's firm texture contains less water and offers a satisfying crunch.

"The Carmen’s eating quality is sweet with a hint of tang, and its medium size and distinctive firmer texture make it an ideal lunch box addition," added Giumarra's eastern region business manager Scott Ross.

"We continually strive to work with our customers and industry partners on unique products and campaigns designed to increase fresh produce consumption among consumers and their children."

The pears will be available on both the West and East Coasts of the U.S.

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