Canada has been cultivating cucumbers for over 30 years, but export to the US had long been a limited affair. This seems to be changing now, with the advent of the mini cucumber. Unlike Europeans, North Americans really seem to take to this variety.
“Traditionally, Americans used to eat slicers,” says Crop Advisor John DeVries of Rijk Zwaan. “The Canadian cucumbers were never really able to conquer US markets. About 10 years ago, things started to change. Now, some 35% of production is shipped to the US. And increasingly, it’s all about mini cucumbers.”
Mini cucumbers are now widely available in the US
“Retailers have successfully marketed the product,” Devries continues. “Consumers recognize the product, and not just the immigrants.” The cucumbers are sold in tray packs; a Styrofoam type tray able to carry six pieces. “This keeps the products fresh and good-looking on shelves.”
The bite-sized cucumbers make them ideal snacks, both on the road and at home. “It’s very easy to just take two of them out of the tray and store the rest. It’s perfect for school-going children; the cucumber is a healthy addition to the lunchbox.” DeVries claims that most people actually prefer the taste to that of the common cucumber. “There’s slightly less water in the mini, which makes it crunchier.
Even more crunchy are the snack cucumber, an even smaller variety taking the market by storm. “These are about half the size, and very suitable for the quick snack. Both the US and Canada are growing them on a large scale now.” The US have really taken to the cultivation of cucumbers: Southern States allow for longer seasons than the colder regions of Canada.”
