MORE THAN A SQUASH: Ayote Tierno becomes part of Sweet Seasons' mission to Nourish the World.

At Sweet Seasons, we believe that food is more than sustenance—it is culture, heritage, and

opportunity. Few crops embody this spirit better than ayote tierno, the traditional Mesoamerican squash that has nourished communities for centuries. Deeply rooted in the history of Mexico

and Central America, ayote is known for its versatility in the kitchen, its nutritional richness, and

its cultural symbolism.

Today, we are proud to announce a historic milestone in our journey: Sweet Seasons has

completed the first-ever import of ayote tierno from Costa Rica to the United States. This

achievement is not only a breakthrough for the fruit itself but also another step forward in our

mission to Nourish the World by opening new horizons for products that carry tradition and

authenticity to global markets.

What is Ayote?

Ayote is a variety of American squash cultivated since pre-Hispanic times. It comes in different

shapes—round, elongated, or flattened—and a variety of colors, from green to yellow and

orange. Its pulp is bright and slightly sweet, while its seeds, known as pepitas, are a staple

ingredient in sauces and traditional dishes such as pipian.

For generations, ayote has been a zero-waste food: both its pulp and its seeds are fully

utilized, making it as practical as it is nutritious.

A Fruit with Deep Roots

From the Olmec and Maya civilizations to today’s Central American kitchens, ayote has been

part of the agricultural and cultural rhythm of life. Every October and November, communities

gather to prepare candied ayote in panela syrup, rich soups, and festive dishes that celebrate

the harvest season.

For us, honoring ayote means honoring the resilience of a crop that has sustained families for

generations and carries the story of abundance and endurance.Why Ayote Matters Today

Ayote is not just a symbol of tradition—it is also a modern superfood. Among its key benefits

are:

• Rich in beta-carotenes, precursors to vitamin A, vital for vision and immune health.

• High in fiber, supporting digestion and satiety.

• B vitamins, critical for energy metabolism.

• Essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium, supporting heart and muscle

health.

• Protein-rich seeds with healthy oils, comparable to nuts such as almonds and

walnuts.

As global consumers seek functional, natural, and sustainable foods, we see ayote as perfectly

aligned with this movement.

From Tradition to Culinary Innovation

Ayote has long been central to traditional recipes:

• Candied ayote with panela syrup, a seasonal treat in Guatemala and El Salvador.

• Soups and stews, enriched by its creamy pulp.

• Ayote fritters, served with homemade sauces.

• Atole de ayote, a sweet, comforting beverage.

Yet today, ayote is also being reimagined. Chefs are incorporating it into gourmet salads,

breads, cakes, and even nutritious beverages, proving that it can be as versatile as pumpkin or

sweet potato on the international stage.

A Milestone for Sweet Seasons: Opening Horizons

At Sweet Seasons, we are constantly looking for ways to innovate while staying true to our

roots. That is why completing the first import of ayote tierno from Costa Rica to the U.S. is such a

meaningful achievement for us.

This step embodies our core value of Open Horizons. Opening horizons means connecting

local farmers with global consumers, giving traditional crops the opportunity to shine beyond

their borders, and introducing authentic flavors to new markets. With ayote tierno, we are not just moving a product—we are building bridges between cultures.

Here’s why this milestone matters:

1. 2. Market entry: Ayote tierno is now available in the U.S., a country with a long-standing

appetite for squash, especially in the fall season.

Agricultural innovation: We have proven that traditional crops can achieve international

success when nurtured with care and vision.3. 4. Community impact: This initiative creates new opportunities for growers in Costa Rica

and strengthens rural economies.

Brand legacy: Each milestone we reach reinforces our mission to Nourish the World,

bringing together tradition and modern consumer trends.

A Sustainable Superfood for a Changing World

The future of food lies in sustainability, and ayote is a natural fit.

• Resilient crop: thrives in diverse climates with fewer pesticides.

• Genetic diversity: countless varieties adapt to multiple ecosystems.

• Zero waste: every part of the fruit can be consumed, maximizing value.

• Export-ready: its long shelf life ensures quality across long distances.

For consumers seeking food that blends nutrition, authenticity, and environmental

consciousness, ayote is a perfect match.

Looking Ahead: Ayote’s Global Potential

The rising popularity of ethnic foods in the U.S. and Europe, paired with the demand for

nutrient-rich superfoods, gives ayote the perfect stage to shine. From alternative flours to

snacks and functional beverages, we see endless possibilities for this crop to expand its reach.

With Sweet Seasons leading the way, ayote tierno is poised to become a signature product in

international markets, standing alongside avocado, chia, and other exports that have defined

the region’s global impact. What sets ayote tierno apart is its freshness, its cultural depth, and its

sense of discovery for new consumers.

For centuries, ayote has been a staple in Mesoamerican households. Today, it has taken a

historic step into the U.S. market through our work at Sweet Seasons. This achievement is

more than a commercial milestone—it is a reaffirmation of who we are.

By bringing ayote tierno from Costa Rica to the U.S. for the very first time, we continue to open

horizons, connecting tradition with innovation and communities with opportunity. And through

every step, we are guided by our purpose: Nourish the World.

Ayote tierno is more than a squash. It is heritage. It is health. It is opportunity. And now, it is part on our journey to nourish people everywhere, one season at a time.