“Varietal adaptation is essential to remain competitive in international blackberry markets”

Berryum is a varietal improvement program specialized in berries, based on the experience gained in blackberry production. Its aim is the development of varieties that can help face the productive, phytosanitary, and commercial challenges of the international market.

“Through systematic trials and advanced genetic selection methodologies, Berryum generates applied knowledge that serves as a reference for producers and technicians in the sector, helping consolidate quality, productivity, and sustainability standards in the berry industry,” says Mariana Ochoa Cordero, genetics and nursery director at Berryum Varieties.

According to Mariana, trials conducted by Berryum show how blackberry production is being transformed by genetic diversification and varietal improvement. “In the face of increased sanitary pressure and growing phytosanitary restrictions, the varieties developed allow year-round harvests, with an average yield of 7.8 kg/ml. The transition from longcane to primocane systems, together with varietal innovation, shows that applied research doesn’t just offer one-off solutions, but constitutes a structural strategy capable of guaranteeing efficiency and sustained quality in production.”

“The results also show the successful adaptation of blackberry varieties to diverse conditions, from Spain and Portugal to Morocco, Italy, and Mexico,” she says. “This shows the importance of taking into account climatic, logistical, and consumption differences. A variety won’t deliver the same results in all countries, and it’s essential to work with local growers beforehand to optimize its performance. This adaptability allows growers to better plan their harvests, keep quality consistent, and extend seasonal availability, all essential to be able to compete in international markets and minimize losses due to pests or adverse weather conditions.

Varietal improvement also reduces dependence on chemical treatments, helps extend the fruit’s shelf life, improves its organoleptic characteristics, and increases its commercial value. “In this sense, our trials show that applied genetics makes it easier for Spanish blackberries to compete in different places worldwide without quality or yields being compromised. The quick response to phytosanitary issues and market developments facilitated by these trials has become a critical factor in keeping the sector competitive and resilient,” says Mariana.

Although most trials focus on blackberries, Berryum applies similar approaches to raspberries and blueberries. “We optimize production cycles, pest resistance, and fruit quality, thus strengthening our leading position in varietal innovation in the berry sector, and not just with a single crop,” says Berryum’s genetics and nursery director.

The international relevance of these trials also highlights Spain’s role as a driver of innovation. “Genetic diversification and adaptation to different climates allow European and North African growers to have a year-round fruit supply, while expansion into markets such as Mexico and the United States shows how applied innovation can respond to different production environments and commercial demands. This strategy is giving a boost to the supply of high-quality blackberries and is also contributing to optimizing the carbon footprint, prioritizing production close to consumer markets,” says Mariana.

“Overall, the results of our trials show that genetic diversification and varietal improvement are key tools to tackle phytosanitary challenges, maximize productivity, and adapt to different international markets. The technical evidence obtained confirms the relevance of applied innovation in berries and is allowing Berryum to consolidate its position as a sectoral leader and source of knowledge for producers and professionals in the international market,” says Mariana Ochoa.

For more information:
Mariana Ochoa Cordero
Berryum Varieties
Tel.: +34 618 424 298
mochoa@berryneo.com
www.berryum.es Publication date: Mon 9 Feb 2026

Raspberry: A strategic option to expand Peru’s agro-export offerings Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation of Peru by FreshPlaza

Posted on February 10, 2026February 10, 2026 by Christian

Raspberry: A strategic option to expand Peru’s agro-export offerings

Raspberries are emerging as an important crop in Peru’s efforts to diversify its fruit production. Agromercado, an entity affiliated with the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri), highlighted this during the webinar “Commercial trends of raspberry cultivation in Peru,” which analyzed the international market and opportunities for this high-value berry.

According to data, global raspberry production reached 920 million tons in 2024, driven by steady growth from the main producing countries: Russia, Mexico, Serbia, the United States, and Poland.

This dynamism is also evident in the international trade of frozen berries, which, under tariff heading 081120, covering raspberries, blackberries, and currants, generated approximately 1.251 billion dollars in the same year.

The European Union remains the main consumer market. Germany, for instance, records a per capita consumption of about five kilograms of berries annually, and demand continues to grow. This creates opportunities for exporting countries that can ensure quality, consistent supply, and adherence to sanitary standards.

In this context, raspberries stand out not only for their commercial appeal but also for their nutritional profile, which features high levels of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. Additionally, they align well with the healthy eating preferences of European consumers.

Peru primarily exports frozen raspberries. According to Agromercado, 95% of shipments go to the United States and 5% to Chile, which indicates there is significant potential for diversifying destinations, especially toward the European Union.

Although the crop is still in early stages compared to established berries like blueberries, Midagri emphasized that its potential relies on scaling production, organizing supply, and meeting market demands for volume, continuity, and logistics.

The country’s top agro-exporters have shown interest in adding raspberries to their offerings, primarily for export as frozen products, pending industrial testing. They are drawn to the advantages, such as a six-month production cycle, a shelf life of up to 15 years, and high yields per hectare.

In addition, it allows a dual commercial orientation: fresh and value-added products for domestic consumption, and frozen products for export.

The webinar organized by Agromercado delivered a compelling message: raspberries are a strategic opportunity to boost Peru’s agro-export supply with high-value products and increase global demand.

For more information:
Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri)
www.gob.pe Publication date: Mon 9 Feb 2026

“In the face of fierce competition, differentiated, high-quality strawberry varieties are standing out” in China by FreshPlaza and Dandong Shengye Berry Professional Cooperative

Posted on February 7, 2026February 7, 2026 by Christian

“In the face of fierce competition, differentiated, high-quality strawberry varieties are standing out”

China is currently in peak strawberry season, and the second crop of frozen seedlings from Dandong is gradually entering the market, with both supply and demand rising simultaneously. Compared with previous years, overall strawberry market prices are lower this season, while purchase prices for greenhouse-grown strawberries are about 10%–12% higher year on year. Mr. Ma Tingdong of the Dandong Shengye Berry Cooperative shared insights on the current market situation.

“The increase in strawberry prices at the production level in Dandong is driven by several factors. First, due to the poor strawberry market last year, some growers shifted to blueberries, resulting in a reduction in strawberry planting area. Second, improvements in frozen seedling technology have enabled Dandong strawberries to enter the market earlier, avoiding direct competition with southern producing regions and supporting higher purchase prices for early fruit. In addition, positive coverage by CCTV has helped correct public misconceptions about strawberries, while continuous improvements in varieties and flavor have further strengthened market confidence.”

“At the same time, we are seeing a price inversion between production-area prices and market prices. This is mainly because the recent boom in the strawberry market has attracted a large number of new suppliers. Intensifying competition has pushed retail prices down, squeezing profit margins for many traders.”

In terms of varieties, high-quality, differentiated specialty strawberries are increasingly standing out. “White, pink, and black strawberries, along with other multi-colored varieties, command significantly higher prices than traditional red strawberries and are gaining popularity. Black strawberries, in particular, have seen notable increases in both demand and price due to their rarity and high sugar content. However, because of their lower yields and more complex cultivation requirements, the expansion of black strawberry planting remains relatively slow.”

According to Mr. Ma, the strawberry industry continues to optimize through the upgrading of facility agriculture and the expansion of e-commerce channels. “Strawberry quality this season is overall very good, especially for early fruit. At the same time, market differentiation is becoming increasingly evident. Growers with refined management and superior fruit quality continue to enjoy strong demand despite higher prices, while those focused primarily on volume with poorer quality are facing pressure on both prices and sales. Consumers are becoming more demanding in terms of appearance, flavor, firmness, and aroma, further intensifying this differentiation, which is particularly pronounced this season.”

Regarding exports, Mr. Ma noted that Dandong’s strawberry export volume is roughly unchanged from previous years, but price competition has intensified, especially from large enterprises. “Pressure from the Hong Kong market is the most pronounced. Southeast Asian and Russian markets remain relatively stable, although prices in Russia are also lower than last year. Strong demand in the Russian market has attracted more exporters, which has affected pricing this season.”

“Differentiated products also have a clear advantage in export markets. Although the export volume of multi-colored strawberries is not large, profit margins are relatively good. This year, Dandong’s planting area for multi-colored strawberries has doubled compared with last year.”

“High-quality, differentiated strawberries will continue to be favored by the market, with relatively mild price competition. Looking ahead, more industry participants are expected to cultivate or cooperate on varieties with intellectual property rights to avoid homogeneous competition,” Mr. Ma added, sharing his observations on industry trends.

As for the pre–Chinese New Year market outlook, Mr. Ma said it remains uncertain. “The final trend will depend largely on the performance of competing holiday fruits such as cherries and blueberries, as their price movements directly influence strawberry sales. That said, demand in the gift market is currently strong, and differentiated, high-quality strawberry varieties are expected to have better opportunities.”

The Dandong Shengye Berry Cooperative operates approximately 800 hectares of orchards under the brand, Shengye Guoyuan. Its products include strawberries, blueberries, and kiwifruit, which are sold both domestically and in export markets.

For more information:

Ma Tingdong

Dandong Shengye Berry Professional Cooperative

+86 18342549777

syjgmtd@163.com Publication date: Tue 3 Feb 2026

Organto Foods appoints Chad Hagen to board by FreshPlaza

Posted on January 28, 2026January 28, 2026 by Christian

Organto Foods appoints Chad Hagen to board

Organto Foods has appointed Chad Hagen to its board of directors, effective January 27, 2026. He replaces Alejandro Maldonado, who resigned from the board effective January 26, 2026.

The company, which operates in the natural and organic food sector, is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, and Breda, the Netherlands. Steve Bromley, chair and co-CEO of Organto Foods, thanked Mr. Maldonado for his contributions following his departure.

Mr. Hagen has more than 30 years of experience across the food, beverage, and fresh produce industries. He currently serves as chief commercial officer at Sojo Industries, a U.S.-based company providing packaging and logistics solutions using robotics and software. Prior to this role, he spent 17 years at SunOpta Inc., where he held several commercial and customer-focused positions, most recently as chief customer officer.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Hagen worked for more than a decade in the organic fresh produce sector, with roles at Robinson Fresh, Newman’s Own Organics, Cape Organics, and Pavich Farms. His work included brand development and supply chain operations across more than 15 countries. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural business from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Following the board change, Organto Foods’ board remains composed of six directors, four of whom are considered independent. The remaining two are classified as non-independent due to their roles as officers and consultants of the company.

In connection with Mr. Hagen’s appointment, the company granted 100,000 stock options with an exercise price of US$0.85 per share, expiring on January 26, 2031, as well as 75,000 restricted share units. The stock options vest in stages, with 25 per cent vesting immediately and further portions vesting every six months. The restricted share units vest over a three-year period.

Organto Foods also provided an update on its digital marketing services agreement with Machai Capital Inc. The agreement, originally announced in November 2025, was amended and restated on December 22, 2025. Under the revised terms, Machai will provide digital marketing services, including branding, content optimisation, and search engine marketing, from January through December 2026 for a base fee of US$200,000, excluding GST.

As part of the amendment, 200,000 previously issued stock options to Machai at an exercise price of US$0.58 were cancelled and replaced with 200,000 new options at an exercise price of US$0.67. These options vest quarterly over one year and expire on December 22, 2027.

For more information
John Rathwell
Organto Foods
Email: john.rathwell@organto.com
www.organto.com Publication date: Wed 28 Jan 2026

Posted on January 27, 2026January 27, 2026 by Christian

By PromPerú and FreshPlaza

Peruvian blueberry exports increase, managing distribution is crucial to prevent price drops

PromPerú

Peruvian blueberry exports increase, managing distribution is crucial to prevent price drops

The Peruvian blueberry season is centered in the United States and Europe.

“The Peruvian blueberry season 2025/26 is advancing steadily, with evident signs of increased competition in the key destination markets. By the end of week 2, Peru had exported 347,105 tons, a 20% rise from the previous season,” according to ProArándanos data derived from Senasa figures.

This increase in volume confirms the trend seen in recent seasons: a growing supply, which means shipments must be managed more carefully. “As noted in previous market analyses, price impacts are not solely due to total seasonal volume but also to the concentration of fruit within very short windows, which can create immediate pressure on the markets,” they stated.

“The United States remains the leading destination, accounting for 47% of total exports with 163,651 tons. Europe follows with 96,630 tons (28%), and China with 44,304 tons (13%). Europe, in particular, stands out with a 35% increase compared to last year, strengthening its position as a crucial market for diversifying export destinations,” PromPerú stated.

“The region of La Libertad leads shipments with 49% of the total volume, followed by Lambayeque and Ica. This regional growth has been accompanied by a strong focus on maritime transport, which now accounts for 96% of shipments, reflecting improvements in logistics and planning. However, air transport remains important for certain niches,” they stated.

The increased availability of fruit has heightened competition among different origins in international markets. Recent experience shows that a structured weekly volume distribution is crucial to prevent sharp price drops during peak production periods across multiple countries.

PromPerú is promoting a growth strategy centered on commercial planning, volume management, and diversification of destinations. The 2025/26 season emphasizes a structured approach to entering international markets, with a focus on commercial sustainability and competitiveness.

In early February, PromPerú is organizing a trade mission in the run-up to Fruit Logistica. Activities will take place in Rotterdam, Europe’s leading agri-food hub, on February 2 and 3. Eight export companies will participate in business meetings, visit the Port of Rotterdam, distribution centers, and supermarkets to better understand logistics processes, consumer behavior, and commercial potential.

The delegation will then travel to Berlin to participate in Fruit Logistica 2026 (February 4-6). Peru will be represented in the national pavilion and networking areas with international buyers, aiming to strengthen the position of its agro-export offerings in Europe.

For more information:
PromPeru
Tel: +51 979 367 355
Email: agro@promperu.gob.pe Publication date: Tue 27 Jan 2026

Blueberries picking up in volume by FreshPlaza and California Giant Berry Farms

Posted on January 24, 2026 by Christian

Blueberries picking up in volume

Blueberry supply is coming in from a few regions at the moment. “Peru continues to provide a steady volume, while Mexico is currently building toward a peak in early February,” says Tim Youmans, vice president of sales with California Giant Berry Farms. “These volumes will be complemented by high-quality fruit from Chile. This increasing influx, paired with Oxnard, California’s domestic organic program hitting its stride mid-month, is expected to provide ample availability especially for February.”

Compared to last year at this time, conventional supply is as stable and consistent as it was, while organic supply is a little lighter than this time last year. However it is also ramping up quickly.

For California Giant, its conventional blueberries are being harvested in Peru, Chile, and Mexico while organic product is coming from Peru and Oxnard. Organic supply from Chile is expected towards the end of January.

^{Youmans says that late January and early February is when the market will transition into a much more abundant and stable blueberry supply phase.}

Weather in the growing regions
In terms of growing conditions, they have been favorable for quality across these regions. “In Peru, optimal weather has led to an earlier-than-normal peak, while Mexico is benefiting from steady, warm days that are supporting consistent yields,” says Youmans. “In Oxnard, while we’ve monitored recent seasonal rains and cooler morning temperatures typical for January, the fruit quality remains strong as the California season begins to gain momentum.”

Meanwhile blueberry demand remains strong as consumers increasingly consider eating blueberries year-round. “This is characterized by a shift in consumer behavior rather than a seasonal trend. Despite the lighter organic volumes currently seen due to the early Peru start, the consumer pull has not softened. The health halo of blueberries continues to drive growth in dollar sales year-over-year,” says Youmans, adding that demand is also expected to intensify as that halo attracts new household demographics.

^{Belli Berries are berries boosted with live probiotic cultures.}

Health and blueberries
Capitalizing on that health association with blueberries, last October, the company introduced a new berry product–Belli Berries, which are blueberries boosted with probiotics. That allows consumers to add further functional benefits to their daily diets with this product which is non-GMO and free of artificial flavors. While Belli Berries made its debut at IFPA 2025 in Anaheim, California, the item is expected to be on shelves and available to consumers in June.

Meanwhile as per-capita blueberry consumption continues to climb, the market is also seeing a distinct trend toward premiumization. “Consumers are increasingly seeking proprietary genetics—specifically jumbos—and are showing a willingness to pay a premium for a consistently superior eating experience,” notes Youmans.

Looking ahead, moving into late January and early February is when the market will transition into a much more abundant and stable supply phase. “The arrival of volumes from Chile in late January, complementing Mexico hitting its peak in early February, will provide a boost to overall availability,” says Youmans, adding that with Oxnard’s organic program also ramping up to peak volumes in mid-February and Peru maintaining its stability, the industry is looking at a window of strong availability. “This alignment of regional peaks creates a perfect opportunity for large-scale promotions and consistent shelf presence throughout the mid-winter months.”

For more information:
Kelley Sablan
California Giant Berry Farms
Tel: +1(831) 786-7467 Ext. 267
kking@calgiant.com
www.calgiant.com

By FreshPlaza and Mohammed EzzatGreen Nile Egypt; “This season will go down as a valuable lesson for the Egyptian strawberry industry”

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Christian

“This season will go down as a valuable lesson for the Egyptian strawberry industry”

The 2025/2026 Egyptian strawberry season was preceded by a sharp increase in acreage and an early harvest, coupled with difficulties in sourcing seedlings, resulting in a massive increase in production, falling prices, and a sharp rise in shipment interceptions due to high MRLs. According to Mohammed Ezzat, Egyptian producer and exporter and CEO of Green Nile, this season is nothing less than a “turning point for the industry.”

According to Ezzat, much of the additional acreage planted this season went in without any real market research, let alone sales contracts. Worse still, many newcomers to strawberry growing and exporting do not fully understand the international market requirements for quality or food safety. “The inevitable result is that the European Union has decided to increase sampling and testing of Egyptian strawberries by 20% in 20226, and a similar measure has been taken by the United Arab Emirates, and rightly so,” the grower adds.

“We don’t know where the market is headed this season, and we are trying to control the situation as much as we can. At Green Nile, as strawberry specialists with a long track record in the sector, we are offering technical assistance to growers in our region, even free of charge, in order to preserve the image of Egyptian strawberries,” Ezzat continues.

After a chaotic start to the season, with prices sometimes falling below production costs according to several growers, the sector is stabilizing somewhat. Ezzat says, “The situation varies from market to market, but overall, we are back to price levels similar to last season. We are saved by the history of the sector in Egypt, which has acquired traditional markets through long and hard work and exceptional fruit.”

Demand remains “very active” in several markets, according to the grower. He explains, “I see Poland standing out this year as the most active market for Egyptian strawberries, thanks to the drying industry in the country. Polish processors have also established themselves in Egypt and set up drying plants this season. Germany and the Netherlands are also very active markets.”

“There are also other important markets this season, such as Russia and Ukraine, due to less stringent MRL requirements. The downside is that it is a crowded market and there is strong competition between Egyptian exporters. We see that a real burn-off pricing strategy is needed to be present in Russia, especially this season, which we do not endorse and which makes it a secondary market for us at Green Nile,” Ezzat continues.

The grower hopes that the industry will return to calmer waters next season. “I expect a large number of growers and exporters, especially newcomers, to pull out and exit the sector next season. There will certainly be a drop in acreage. This season will go down as a valuable lesson for the Egyptian strawberry industry and fresh produce in general.”

Mohammed Ezzat
Green Nile Egypt
Tel: +201000285606
Email: info@greennile-eg.com
www.greennile-eg.com Publication date: Tue 20 Jan 2026

By Port International Group on the Chilean blueberry season and FreshPlaza:

Posted on January 21, 2026January 21, 2026 by Christian

“Following the early start to the season, the campaign is also expected to end somewhat earlier”

Port International Group

Port International Group on the Chilean blueberry season:

“Following the early start to the season, the campaign is also expected to end somewhat earlier”

As planned, the first Chilean blueberries were delivered to food retailers shortly before the turn of the year. “Demand has been very good so far, and price developments in this segment are typically strongly driven by supply,” summarizes Malte Storjohann, Head of Procurement Overseas at Port International Group. The first shipments from the South American growing region confirm the early assessments: “The quality is good overall, especially in terms of fruit firmness and shelf life. This is due, among other things, to favorable weather conditions in the main growing areas and the increasing variety change.”

In terms of harvest and export volumes, Port International Group currently expects a largely stable level compared to last year. Storjohann: “Compared to last year, the overall situation is neither clearly better nor worse, but structurally different. Due to climatic conditions, we started earlier with the produce, which is also likely to lead to an earlier and possibly abrupt end to the season. In addition, the start of the season for produce from Morocco and Spain has been delayed. Overall, however, we still expect the total volume to be roughly on par with last year’s level.”

Malte Storjohann visited suppliers in Chile shortly before the start of the season

Seasonal peak approaching
In addition to Chilean blueberries, the Hamburg-based fruit trading company is currently also offering European food retailers produce from Peru and South Africa, Storjohann continues. The latter origin is produced by the exclusive partner Rainbow Superfood. “They have their production in the Western Cape and offer blueberries until the end of January. In general, we are now approaching the peak, which of course also has an impact on volume pressure.” Overall, there has been a relatively smooth seasonal transition from the Northern Hemisphere to the Southern Hemisphere in the blueberry category. “Overseas produce is usually available until spring, but this always depends heavily on weather, harvest progress, logistics, and market uptake. We expect to be able to offer Chilean blueberries until March.”

Focus on variety innovations and expansion of acreage
In the long term, the Port International Group sales team is observing a gradual structural and variety change. “The Latin American blueberry industry tends to focus more on variety renewal, known as New Genetics, and quality profiles than on pure acreage growth. These have a more consistent quality and longer shelf life. In some cases, however, there is also a growing demand for larger sizes, but this depends on the respective market. When it comes to packaging, standardization, handling, and comparability are often the main priorities in the retail sector; major innovations are currently rather rare.”

Insights into Chilean blueberry cultivation

A cornerstone of Port International Group’s corporate strategy is to maintain close, long-term partnerships with producers and suppliers. “We place particular emphasis on personal communication and regular on-site exchanges to align expectations early on, ensure quality, and plan ahead together. We visit our producers several times a year, thereby regularly deepening our business relationships and securing fixed programs,” he concludes.

For more information:
Malte Storjohann
Port International Group
Lippeltstrasse 1
20097 Hamburg
Phone: +49 40 301000-0
info@port-international.com
www.port-international.com Publication date: Tue 20 Jan 2026

Posted on January 3, 2026January 3, 2026 by Christian

Asparagus fortune-teller predicts 2026 political ‘carnage’ – BBC News

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxjle9ej4eo.amp

Posted on December 21, 2025December 21, 2025 by Christian

Macfrut 2026 focuses on berries with a growing and renewed Berry Area by Italianberry

The Italian berry market accounts for Eur 621 millions and is growing at a pace of 15% annually.

https://italianberry.it/en/news/macfrut-2026-berry-area

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