Importing fresh vegetables to the US: Case study
At CuB Consultants, we specialize in advising U.S. companies on importing products, particularly fresh produce. In collaboration with our partner, Juliana Lim CHB, based in Gardena, California, we ensure a seamless import process while maintaining the highest product quality. Below is an example of one of our successful projects
Taro: The staple of Samoan nutrition
Taro is a highly nutritious root vegetable widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It holds significant cultural and culinary importance in various parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, South America, and the Pacific Islands. Countries like China, Japan, and Vietnam use taro as a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet dishes. Hawaii famously transforms it into the traditional dish 'poi.' Across Africa and the Caribbean, taro is a staple food, often served boiled or fried. In the U.S., taro is popular among Hawaiian and Asian communities and is readily available in major cities through Asian and Latin markets. Recently, taro chips and desserts have gained popularity, particularly due to the rise in vegan and healthy eating trends.
Keeping Taro fresh
Maintaining the freshness of taro throughout the supply chain is a key challenge. Fresh taro is sensitive to cold temperatures, which can compromise its flavor and texture, making proper handling essential. Traditionally, Samoan taro growers would sell their produce to markets, where extended shipping times and delays at supermarkets often resulted in significant spoilage. This inefficiency in the supply chain not only diminished the product's quality but also negatively impacted profitability for growers.
To address this, more efficient logistics and transportation strategies are crucial to reduce the time between harvest and market presentation. Our client, Taro Hut, has taken a proactive approach to resolving this issue by pre-selling taro directly to customers, ensuring faster delivery and fresher produce. By shipping the taro directly to their clients, they bypass traditional market delays, preserving the quality and ensuring customer satisfaction. Learn more about their strategy at (www.tarohut.com).
Ensuring quality: Taro Hut's strategic approach
For Taro Hut, keeping taro fresh during the import process is their highest priority. They accomplish this by filing import paperwork with the U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) five days prior to the taro’s arrival. This allows them to anticipate and accommodate any routine inspections, which could otherwise cause delays. By planning ahead, Juliana Lim CHB ensures that any potential disruptions do not affect delivery timelines. Once the container arrives, they deliver the freshest, highest-quality Samoan taro directly to their customers, preserving both the flavor and texture of the produce. This strategic approach enhances the customer experience and ensures consistent product freshness.
Contact Us
Are you looking to import fresh vegetables or other products into the U.S.? CuB Consultants can help you navigate U.S. customs, import regulations, and market opportunities. Contact us to schedule a consultation with the expert who successfully managed Taro Hut’s customs consultancy project.
Interested in bringing products to the U.S.?
Read more about our customs and shipment consultancy services and learn how we can help you achieve success in the U.S. market.