Los Angeles - June 2026- With the outward appearance of cantaloupe and the texture of watermelon, Waterloupe® is a standout in Melissa's extensive lineup of high-quality, seasonal specialty melons, offering an exciting new way to experience the pleasures of a perfect, juicy melon.
“I’ve tasted all the melons,” says Kenny Kataoka, Key Accounts Manager at Melissa’s Produce, “and this is one of the most unique melons on the market.”
That uniqueness arrives at a time when consumer demand for premium and specialty melons continues to accelerate. Recent Circana retail scan data shows strong velocity gains among emerging melon varieties, highlighting growing shopper interest in premium melon offerings beyond the core assortment. Melissa's melon program mirrored that momentum last year, posting sales lift of 68% in Q2 and 66% in Q3 as shoppers increasingly sought out premium and differentiated melon experiences.
To help retailers capitalize on that growth, Melissa's Waterloupe is now packed in a premium one-count vexar bag featuring a scannable UPC. The attractive presentation reinforces the melon's premium positioning while helping ensure proper ring at checkout, making it easy for shoppers to identify this unique variety and simple for retailers to merchandise.
Melissa's Waterloupe features a familiar green outer rind with dense cream netting. They are oblong versus round and have the perfumed, floral aroma of a husk melon. The insides reveal bright orange-yellow flesh with a wide seed cavity, but unlike cantaloupes, which have smooth, dense flesh, Waterloupe flesh is crisp and juicy.
“With the flavor of a sweet, orange-fleshed melon and the texture of watermelon, Waterloupe is the best of both in one,” says Robert Schueller, Director of Public Relations at Melissa’s Produce. “These newer varieties are trending as a favorite among consumers for their sweet taste and unique texture.”
Grown in the USA and available June through October, Melissa's Waterloupes are hand-selected for peak quality and freshness. This year’s extended season gives retailers a premium specialty melon option throughout the summer and fall while helping to sustain excitement in the melon category.
Retailers interested in adding Waterloupe to their melon program should contact their Melissa's sales representative for availability, merchandising support, and promotional opportunities.
About Melissa’s Produce
Melissa's Produce is a leading distributor of specialty fruits and vegetables, offering a wide variety of unique and exotic items to grocery stores and restaurants across the country. The company is committed to providing the freshest, highest-quality produce while continuously innovating and introducing new and exciting products to consumers. Media contact: Robert Schueller, 800.588.0151, www.melissas.com
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