Why Calamansi Is the Filipino Citrus Taking Over American Grocery Stores

If you’ve been to an Asian market or even your local Trader Joe’s recently, you might have noticed a tiny, green citrus fruit making its way onto shelves and into the hearts of food enthusiasts: calamansi. This tangy, versatile fruit, a staple in Filipino cuisine, is now crossing cultural boundaries and capturing the attention of American consumers. But why is calamansi suddenly becoming so popular in the U.S., and can it rival the lemon as the citrus of choice?

From exotic ingredients to international grocery aisles, Filipino flavors are transforming the American palate—as evidenced by the rise of calamansi in drinks, desserts, and even candies. Let’s dive into how this humble fruit is becoming a global culinary sensation.

Calamansi: A Filipino Staple Goes Global

Calamansi, often described as a cross between a lime and a mandarin orange, has long been a cornerstone of Filipino cooking. Known for its unique balance of sweetness and tartness, it’s used in everything from marinades to dipping sauces, drinks, and desserts. In the Philippines, calamansi is a pantry essential, akin to how lemons or limes are used in Western kitchens.

However, this beloved citrus is no longer confined to Filipino households. In 2023 alone, the United States imported over 1 million pounds of calamansi, according to global trade data. What’s fueling this growth? The growing interest in Filipino cuisine as well as the fruit’s versatility and unique flavor profile.

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Calamansi in U.S. Grocery Stores: From Costco to Trader Joe’s

One of the clearest signs of calamansi’s growing popularity is its presence in mainstream American grocery stores. Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Safeway are now carrying calamansi products, from refreshing calamansi lime nectar to ready-to-drink calamansi coolers.

Content creators and Filipino food enthusiasts have been quick to share their excitement online. TikTok user @sincerelyabbeym, for example, celebrated the arrival of calamansi juice at their local Costco, saying, “Have arrived 😊.” Reddit threads about calamansi products at Trader Joe’s are buzzing with positive reviews, with many praising the fruit’s tropical twist on familiar beverages.

These products are not only introducing calamansi to non-Filipino consumers but also offering a nostalgic taste of home for Filipino-Americans.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Calamansi

What makes calamansi so exciting is its versatility. It pairs equally well in savory dishes, sweet desserts, and refreshing drinks. Here are just a few examples of how calamansi is being reimagined in the U.S.:

1. Calamansi Mojitos
   A modern twist on a classic cocktail, the calamansi mojito brings a Filipino flair to happy hour. With its perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, calamansi elevates the drink to something truly special.

   • Flavor Profile: Sweetness (4/5), Tartness (5/5), Savory (1/5)

2. Calamansi Cheesecake
   Imagine a traditional cheesecake, but with a zesty calamansi curd filling that cuts through the richness. This dessert perfectly blends sweet and tart flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

   • Flavor Profile: Sweetness (5/5), Tartness (3/5), Savory (0/5)

3. Pancit Canton with Calamansi
   Pancit canton, a Filipino noodle dish, is often served with calamansi wedges to squeeze over the dish. The citrus adds a bright, refreshing tang that complements the savory, umami-rich flavors of the noodles and toppings.

   • Flavor Profile: Sweetness (1/5), Tartness (4/5), Savory (5/5)

4. Calamansi Gummies by Dear Flor
   Filipino-owned brand Dear Flor is taking calamansi into the realm of snacks with their calamansi gummies. Tart, sweet, and bite-sized, these gummies are a fun way to enjoy the fruit on the go.

   • Flavor Profile: Sweetness (4/5), Tartness (4/5), Savory (0/5)

Dear Flor: Elevating Calamansi’s Global Presence

One brand leading the charge in popularizing calamansi is Dear Flor, a Filipina-owned business dedicated to introducing Filipino ingredients to new audiences. From their calamansi gummies to other innovative products, Dear Flor is amplifying the rich history of Filipino cuisine while reimagining it for global consumers.With branding that celebrates Filipino heritage and a commitment to high-quality, authentic flavors, Dear Flor is helping calamansi find its place in the broader culinary landscape.

The Future of Calamansi in America

As Filipino flavors continue to gain traction, it’s clear that calamansi is more than just a passing trend. Its arrival in major grocery stores and its incorporation into creative recipes signal a bright future for this beloved fruit.

Whether it’s in a refreshing mojito, a decadent cheesecake, or a nostalgic pancit canton, calamansi is proving that it has what it takes to rival the lemon’s long-standing supremacy in American kitchens. So, the next time you spot calamansi in the grocery aisle, give it a try—you just might discover your new favorite citrus.

Explore more Filipino flavors and products like calamansi gummies by following @lovedearflor or visiting their website https://bit.ly/dearflorfilipinogummies. Let’s celebrate the rich heritage of Filipino cuisine together!

Disclaimer: Store availability at Costco, Trader Joe's, and Safeway may vary by region. Flavor ratings and culinary descriptions reflect our opinions only. Product images, store mentions, and recipe suggestions are for informational purposes and do not constitute endorsement

Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/filipinofood/comments/11z2js9/calamansi_juice_in_my_local_costco_southeast/

What’s Good at Trader Joe’s:

https://www.whatsgoodattraderjoes.com/2017/06/trader-joes-calamansi-cooler.html

TikTok @sincerelyabbeym_:

https://www.tiktok.com/@sincerelyabbeym_/video/7113289591368502571?lang=en

The Well:

https://www.thewell.id/menu/drinks

The Awkward Kitchen:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKHy3kZKESg

Tridge:

https://www.tridge.com/intelligences/calamansi