Emerald variety spearheads promising California fig season

Golden State fig growers are looking at a strong 2026 season, with outstanding quality and robust volumes confirmed by the California Fresh Fig Growers Association (CFFGA).

Erik Herman, Sales at The Specialty Crop Company and Herman Produce, told FreshFruitPortal.com that retailers have shown strong interest in the newcomer Emerald variety. Despite its short time under the spotlight, the cultivar has become known for its crème brûlée-like flavor.

"Even in its second commercial year, the Emerald still feels fresh and new, and buyers are genuinely excited about it. We’re not even at full production yet, but everyone who’s had the chance to try it has been raving," the executive said. “A handful of retailers are already planning to feature it this season, and overall there’s just a lot of buzz and enthusiasm around getting it onto shelves.

Herman also noted pricing has improved compared with last season, which experienced a slightly delayed start. The positive development comes as growers and shippers in the state struggle with tight margins.

"FOB prices are up this season, and honestly, they need to be. Labor, water, gas, packing materials—pretty much every input has climbed since last year,” Herman explained. “Those rising costs really add up, so keeping FOBs strong is important for everyone in the supply chain."

Thinking inside the box

The fruit's delicate nature tends to complicate supply chain logistics. For starters, they don’t ripen once picked, giving them a very short shelf-life. Additionally, their soft, thin skin often forces packers to think outside the box—or rather, inside—to secure quality.

“Consumers mostly see the final retail price, but with how delicate and labor-intensive they are, a lot is happening behind the scenes to get their favorite fruit onto the shelf,” Herman noted. 

The executive’s firm continues to evaluate packaging and cold-chain improvements to support broader distribution.

"Whether it’s testing different clamshells to improve airflow or tweaks to our box designs, we are always looking at new ideas. We’re exploring a lot of options, and every season we learn something that helps us meet the needs of retailers and consumers," he said.

The company also encourages retailers to merchandise fresh and dried offerings together to drive both timely and perennial sales.

"Fresh figs bring that seasonal excitement, and dried figs help keep shoppers engaged year-round. When they’re merchandised side by side, it not only drives impulse purchases but also reminds consumers how versatile figs are overall," he noted.

Clearing the air on pollination

The California Fig Advisory Board also continues to educate consumers that California figs are self-pollinating, addressing a common misconception about the crop’s production.

"It’s a simple, factual point that helps clear up a lot of confusion, especially for younger shoppers who are curious about how their food is grown. While it’s not a central marketing theme, it’s a helpful educational point we use when it can support broader understanding and make figs feel more approachable," Herman concluded.

*All photos courtesy of the California Fig Advisory Board.

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