Orange bell peppers are here to stay. The 'Oranje Paprika Vereniging' (OPV) (Orange bell pepper association) is working hard to keep it that way. The OPV has been actively promoting the product in the Netherlands, Germany and England. Karin Barendse: "This has happened after years of promoting the product. We have been doing it since 2008, and we are now seeing the benefits. But I do also want to add that the last few years have not been easy for Orange bell pepper growers. Last year was actually very difficult, 2013 was relatively better, and the two to three years prior to this were also difficult when it came to prices."
This year 7.5 acres have been added, and the orange bell pepper growers who are affiliated with OPV now account for 71 acres of orange bell pepper crops. Under certain circumstances that may be considered remarkable growth, but there is an explanation for this. Barendse: "First of all, orange bell peppers are sweet, which means they are eaten more often as a snack. Kids, especially, love this vegetable. Also, it is healthy: it contains lots of vitamins, especially vitamin C, it also contains the substances lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that are good for the retina."
Promotion
But, there is more; "The other bell peppers do not have something like the OPV working in their favour," says Barendse. "Along with a PR group, the OPV also has a breeding commission, which deals with new varieties, stability tests and quality. On top of this, the members of OPV are also members of various sales organizations, and they work together to promote the product and exchange information regarding the different varieties."
According to Barendse, there is still plenty of potential with regard to consumption of orange bell peppers. In any case, it won't be up to the OPV: for the upcoming season we can expect new campaigns in the Netherlands, and also in Germany and England, according to the OPV.
For more information:
Oranje Paprika Vereniging
De Bruidsbogerd 8
2671 DL Naaldwijk
E: info@oranjepaprika.eu
www.oranjepaprika.eu
According to Barendse, there is still plenty of potential with regard to consumption of orange bell peppers. In any case, it won't be up to the OPV: for the upcoming season we can expect new campaigns in the Netherlands, and also in Germany and England, according to the OPV.
For more information:
Oranje Paprika Vereniging De Bruidsbogerd 8
2671 DL Naaldwijk
E: info@oranjepaprika.eu
www.oranjepaprika.eu