figs on leaves

Bulk Figs

Fig Bulk Packs - General Information

Locally grown in the central valley, we offer both California mission and golden figs. Our California mission figs are available as conventional or organic which are certified by the State of California and the CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) organization.

Golden Figs

Golden Figs are composed of several varieties of figs including Adriatic, Tena, and Sierra Fig varieties that all originated in Europe and the Middle east. These varieties, like all figs grown in California, do not require pollination (caprification). Amber-colored, sweet and milder in flavor that Mission Figs, these figs have a rich fig flavor that comes through in finished products. Available in 5 and 30 pound cases; as natural (no preservatives) or with potassium sorbate added as a preservative and sodium dioxide added as a color preserver.

Mission Figs

The Mission Fig variety represents most of the California dried fig crop. They were the first figs introduced to California and were brought in by Franciscan missionaries, starting with the founding of Mission San Diego in 1769. The dark-skinned, pink-fleshed Mission fig was the only kind grown here until the 1850s, when settlers brought other varieties from the East Coast and Europe. The fruit has a dark purple color and a very soft, thin skin. They have a sweet, robust fig flavor and firm texture. Like all other California Figs, Mission Figs do not need caprification (pollination). There are two crops per season, one maturing in late June on last year's branches, and a second in late July through September. Available in 5 and 30 pound cases; as natural (no preservatives) or with potassium sorbate added as a preservative.

Organic Mission Figs

Valley Fig Growers is a grower owned cooperative who has members committed to the practice of organic farming. Located in the fertile San Joaquin Valley of central California, our Blue Ribbon Organic California Figs and fig products come from a tradition of quality. That tradition of quality and a special sense of grower pride are important parts of producing the best tasting figs in the world. We're proud of the heritage of excellence that stands behind every Blu e Ribbon Orchard Choice Fig; it's a guarantee of quality that is the cornerstone of our business.

The process that brings our organic figs and fig products of the highest quality begins in our orchards. Our CCOF certified organic figs are grown in orchards that have been free of pesticide, herbicide and fertilizer use for at least three years. Grower member s must keep detailed records of methods and materials used to grow their Organic California Figs. Our processing plant in Fresno, California is certified to pack organic products. This certification from orchard to customer allows for organic integrity throughout the entire chain of custody. Available in 5 and 30 pound cases.

Contact us for further information for 30 lb. cases of figs

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Organic Figs moisture levels

21-24% maximum

Conventional Figs moisture levels

21-24% Maximum with or without preservatives
26-30% Maximum with preservatives

Why some customers request Preservatives

Dried Figs in their natural condition are a remarkably stable food; however, when the moisture content is raised to enhance their palatability, they become more susceptible to mold and yeast growth. To preserve high moisture processed figs (26-30% moisture levels), potassium sorbate is added. This preservative, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, is widely used in the food industry.

When added to foodstuffs, potassium sorbate releases sorbic acid, its preserving component. Sorbic acid is a polyunsaturated fatty acid very similar to other such acids which occur naturally in edible fats and oils. Sorbic acid is completely metabolized in the body, and therefore may be considered a food. It is effective as a mold inhibitor and does not affect the flavor or taste of the treated food. The amount of sorbic acid required to obtain a preserving action is nominal; as a rule, 500 ppm or 0.05% (by weight) is sufficient.

Sulfur dioxide may be used on golden varieties to retain color. These varieties may be available without sulfur dioxide on special order.

What is Sugaring and why does it occur

"Surfacing" of natural sugars occurs more rapidly at lower moisture levels and appears as surface sugar crystals. No liability for prevention of this natural phenomenon is assumed by Valley Fig Growers. The appearance of "sugaring" does not indicate spoilage; it merely alters the product's appearance. All moisture determinations are made by the DFA moisture meter.

Recommended Storage

  • 40 - 70F, humidity levels 55%
  • Shelf life: 6 months