Charlie’s Produce, an employee-owned independent produce company serving the West Coast since 1978, will introduce YUMI organic black seedless watermelon starting mid-June 2020.

Originating in Hokkaido, Japan, organic black seedless watermelon was once a highly coveted commodity, mainly for its black, shiny rind and notable crunchy texture, sometimes driving the price upwards to $5,000 per melon. Once it was introduced to the United States, Charlie’s Produce began working with growers in eastern Washington to cultivate the crop locally. As popularity grew for the unique melon, growing regions soon expanded to California as well. YUMI organic black seedless watermelon is now grown in Washington and California and was previously packed under Charlie’s Produce Farmer’s Own Organics label.

YUMI, meaning abundant beauty, is unique in color and in flavor. With a smooth midnight black skin, it’s as tasty and refreshing as it is visually stunning. With its full-flavor sweet taste and crisp texture, it will be an instant summer classic. Spectacularly sweet, unbelievably juicy, sun-kissed flavor, YUMI redefines watermelon and summer in each bite.

YUMI will be available starting mid-June, exclusively through Charlie’s Produce’s six distribution centers throughout the West Coast. Packaging availability includes 700-pound bins, designed for beautiful retail produce displays and 65-pound boxes.