Origin Story

Melissa's/World Variety Produce, Inc. has been delivering the global market since 1984 and is currently the largest distributor of specialty produce in the United States. We are proud to operate out of a 330,000 square foot facility located in Los Angeles, outfitted with conventional and organic fresh fruits and vegetables, value-added goods, and a state-of-the-art CCOF/SQFcertified organic packing facility.

We are proud to be your go-to provider for all things fresh fruits and veggies. From origin stories to health benefits, from simple storage tips and tasty recipes to everything in between, we have your health and taste buds top of mind.

Consumers have been engaging with Melissa’s products through a variety of outlets for over a quarter of a century. By combining global access, local sourcing and endless innovation, we’ve been instrumental in expanding assortment for grocery retailers in the U.S. and abroad. Today, you’ll also spot our brand across multiple online grocery shopping platforms.

In addition, Melissa's food service division garners relationships with an exclusive community of talented chefs and supports their needs by providing unmatched quality and service. When you’re cheering in the stands or dining at sports venues across the country, we are with you, elevating the culinary offerings and experience for fans.

We are extraordinarily passionate about getting produce into your hands because we care! This commitment is exemplified through our humanitarian efforts, participation in community events, and philanthropic initiatives.

Connect with your food by following us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and YouTube. And if you still can't find what you're looking for, email hotline@melissas.com; or give us a call toll-free at 800.588.0151, where we have a dedicated team of customer service representatives standing by to answer any questions you may have.

You can always count on Melissa's for the freshest ideas in produce.

A Walk Down Memory Lane
Melissa's began strictly as a source of specialty produce, selling to retailers in the Southern California region. Sharon and Joe Hernandez founded the business in 1984 with a decade of produce industry experience in a small, rented produce warehouse lunchroom. The original office had just three telephones and four chairs — no one could have guessed that, within a few short years, the company would scale and grow to what it is today.

Family is a big part of World Variety's success. Melissa's brand is named after Joe and Sharon's daughter, who takes an active role in the company. Through the years, the company has found stable growth thanks to the support of very loyal customers and a close-knit family of employees dedicated to customer service.