California Prune Board appoints leading winter sports athletes as brand ambassadors

The California Prune Board has joined forces with two high-profile winter sports athletes in its latest European promotional campaign. 

Italian figure skater Matteo Rizzo and alpine skier Elena Curtoni will showcase the benefits of California Prunes to their respective social media followers, including their role as a nutritious sports snack in training, during competitions, and in post-event recovery. 

The six-month campaign coincides with a busy schedule for both athletes, with Matteo Rizzo competing in major skating competitions around the globe, including the USA and Japan. Meanwhile, Elena Curtoni has been taking part in international downhill and slalom events in Italy, Germany and Norway before her ski season culminates at a world event in the USA next month.  

Esther Ritson-Elliott, Director of International Marketing and Communications for the California Prune Board, says: “This programme forms part of an ongoing collaboration in Italy between the California Prune Board and a host of world-leading athletes, with Matteo and Elena giving followers an insight into their training and diet regimes in the run-up to high-profile, international competitions. 

“The partnership underpins our ongoing promotional activity in Italy and Europe, enabling us to reach health-orientated consumers and highlight the benefits of California Prunes as a nutrient-dense, portable and delicious snack.”

California Prune Board Dietitian and Nutritionist Dr Annamaria Acquaviva explains: "California Prunes can play a valuable role in sports nutrition. High octane winter sports like skiing and ice skating demand the fittest participants, who are at the peak of their game. Repetitive training, freezing temperatures and international travel present extra challenges for competitors, who require a steady supply of energy and optimal recovery to enhance performance.

“With their low glycaemic index, California Prunes provide slow-release energy, making them ideal for supporting sports activities and maintaining consistent energy levels. Additionally, their nutrient profile of vitamin K, manganese, magnesium, and potassium makes them a unique ally for muscle and bone health; both of which are essential for sustaining physical performance during the winter season."

To find out more about California Prunes, visit www.californiaprunes.net

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Editors notes

The California Prune Board was established in 1952 to represent growers and handlers under the authority of the California Secretary of Food and Agriculture. California is the world’s largest producer of prunes with orchards across 14 counties in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys. Promoting a lifetime of wellness through the enjoyment of California Prunes, the organisation leads the premium prune category with generations of craftsmanship supported by California’s leading food safety and sustainability standards. California Prunes. Prunes. For life.

www.californiaprunes.net