MONTRÉAL, QUÉBEC--(Marketwired - April 14, 2016) -

Note to editors: A photo for this release will be available on the Canadian Press picture wire via Marketwire.

PREMIUM EUROPEAN KIWI will be a notable presence at the upcoming SIAL CANADA (Palais de Congress, Montreal April 13-15, 2016 - booth #2504)! A great opportunity to meet producers and sample their distinctive taste!

The delicious, green fuzzy fruit might not usually be associated to European growers - however, Italy, Greece and France are among the biggest kiwi-producing countries worldwide. In 2014 alone, Europe produced 632,700 tons of kiwifruits, exported to over 51 countries worldwide (areflh.org).

What sets aside European kiwis from other locations, like New Zealand and China?

The mild winters and warm summers of the Mediterranean team up with traditional farming methods to grow a large and succulent crop; add a dash of strict regulatory quality control by the European Union and you get the finest natural result: a juicy, healthy and sweet fruit, grown just right just for you! The main kiwifruit variety produced is Hayward (light brown skin color/ bright green flesh with edible seeds). The average size is 70-130 grams.

Loaded with many important nutrients, Kiwifruits are a rich source of dietary fiber and is considered to be colon-protector. High levels of vitamin A, vitamin K, vitamin E and flavonoid anti-oxidants such as beta carotene, lutein and xanthin, make kiwi a healthy snack. It is also an excellent source of vitamin C and provides over 150% of the daily recommended intake (DRI) while its seeds provide omega 3 fatty acids, linked to reduction of risks of coronary heart disease. Finally, Kiwifruit provides 10% of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance of folic acid, or folate, essential to the reproduction and formation of red blood cells.

The campaign "Premium European Kiwi" (www.europeankiwi.eu) is funded by the European Union and the nation of Greece for the promotion of kiwifruits in Canadian, Chinese and the United Arab Emirates' markets. The campaign is implemented by the consortium of producers: Agricultural Cooperative of Chrisochori NESPAR, Agricultural Association NESTOS, Alkyon SA, and Goustera SA.

For additional information about the program, please visit: www.europeankiwi.eu