CASTROVILLE, Calif. – (Dec. 16, 2015) – As a result of the recent widespread frost in California, highly flavorful artichokes known as Frost Kissed™ artichokes are now in stores for a short time.
The impact of frost on artichokes is similar to how human skin reacts to sunburn, said Diana McClean, director of marketing at Ocean Mist Farms. Frost turns the outside layer of the artichoke dark brown, and then it flakes and peels.
Once cooked, the brown outer layer is gone resulting in the soft green artichoke shoppers are familiar with.
“Frosting is strictly a cosmetic condition,” McClean said. “While the brownish color may not look pretty, Frost Kissed™ artichokes taste wonderful. The cold weather concentrates the natural artichoke flavors into a more intense, nutty flavor.”
Because Frost Kissed™ artichokes look different than green artichokes, Ocean Mist Farms is implementing an education program to teach shoppers about how good they taste.
The company has information on its website with pictures and recipes and is sending that information to members of its artichoke club and sharing it through its digital channels.
Ocean Mist Farms also provides display cards to the retail customers who stock Frost Kissed™ artichokes the new few weeks.
“A Frost Kissed™ artichoke is a unique item that we don’t have every season,” McClean said. “Because they are so seasonal, we have to teach shoppers to look for them and be sure to buy them during the short time they are in the stores.”
Artichokes are Frost Kissed™ when the temperature drops below 32 degrees. Following a freeze, artichoke plants take two to three weeks to start producing frost free artichokes again.
