Dole Packaged Foods is always on the move, with some team members stationed in manufacturing plants in Thailand and the Philippines. Mary Galante, a key figure at Dole, shares insights into their process. “Once we sort out the bench work and refine our formulas, that’s when our factory team steps in. They ensure what we created can actually be made at scale,” she says.
Dole utilizes a method called Stage Gate for product development. It kicks off with a start gate, where ideas are validated through consumer feedback and marketing involvement. As projects proceed, the team holds regular updates at various check-ins to keep leadership informed, ultimately leading to final approvals and execution.
The timeline for projects varies. Simple product updates, like new flavors, typically take around 9 to 12 months. In contrast, more innovative products may need 1 to 2 years to develop, according to Galante.
One notable example is the Dole Fruit N Crème Dessert, launched over 20 years ago. Galante recalls it as her first innovation at Dole, marking a shift towards more indulgent offerings. While not all attempts have succeeded—like the Wiggles fruit juice gelatins and fruit-based vitamin chews—Dole views these as valued experiments in exploring fruit’s potential.
As the company looks to the future, they’re tapping into fresh ideas. At the Natural Products Expo West in March, they sampled a unique mixture of coffee and pineapple juice. Although it’s not set to launch, Galante hints at the possibilities. “We’re always scanning the market for what consumers crave,” she explains.
Dole focuses on maintaining its commitment to accessible fruit nutrition while exploring new avenues. They keep a close lookout on the competitive landscape in snacks, canned goods, and beverages. By listening to consumers, they aim to meet cravings while promoting healthier options through fruit.
Recent surveys highlight that over 70% of consumers are seeking healthier snack options, making Dole’s mission even more relevant today. Their R&D team is dedicated to aligning with these trends, ensuring they stay relevant and innovative in the ever-evolving food industry.
For more insights on consumer trends in food and nutrition, check out the Institute of Food Technologists.
