Dole unveils mixed fruit in jelly range for kids

The Dole Sunshine Company has announced the launch of a new range of mixed fruit in jelly, targeted specifically at kids.

Available from September, the range comprises two SKUs: one with strawberry flavoured jelly and the other with orange flavoured jelly, both made with 100% real fruit juice and containing pieces of pineapple and papaya.

The products are sugar-free, high in vitamin C and contain no artificial colours, flavours or sweeteners. They also have a Nutri score of ‘B’, to confirm to consumers that they are making a healthy choice.

The products come in smaller portion sizes with fun packaging to appeal to a younger audience. The rsp of £1.79 for a pack of four offers retailers an attractive margin, says Dole, as well as ambient storage and a long shelf life.

Dole carried out consumer testing in advance of the launch which revealed that jelly with fruit is seen by parents as an appealing and exciting option for their kids, with 89% of respondents agreeing ‘this product is good for my children’s health’ and 95% agreeing ‘this product is a convenient snack for my kids’. Dole will be supporting the launch with a strong marketing plan, incorporating PR, social media and in-store activations.

Andrew Bradshaw, UK sales director at the Dole Sunshine Company, comments: “We’re excited to launch what we believe is a first to market, with a sugar-free, allergy-free fruit in jelly range aimed specifically at children.

“At Dole, we firmly believe in good nutrition for all, and with the imminent return to school, this launch is timed perfectly to help support parents to make healthier food choices in their children’s lunchboxes, at a price which is affordable for all.

“Furthermore, what makes this product special is that the flavours have been chosen by kids, for kids. We partnered with a local primary school where all the year two and three kids tested and voted on the best flavour combinations. Both kids and parents loved the products, with 96% wanting these products to be available at home for snacks – including two children who had significant allergies to artificial flavours and colours.”