Things are looking good for the up and coming blueberry season in North America, according to Brian Bocock from Naturipe Farms. The crop in Florida will see a decrease in overall production this year along with delays caused by the less than favorable winter weather. All other areas look to have average to above average crops, including states such as California, New Jersey, Georgia, Michigan, Washington, and British Colombia in Canada. Last year was historically late, but this season, it looks like everything should be on time. The late cold weather we are currently experiencing in MI, may influence the timing and the size of the crop – but it is too soon to determine if there will be any substantial impact
Organic blueberry segment continues to see growth
Organics continue to trend as more and more consumers are becoming dedicated organic purchasers.
"As we go along, I think that that trend will continue to grow over the next three or four years, but that trend is very dependent on the state of the economy. Back in 2008 and 2009 when the US economy took a turn for the worst, organic consumption also saw a dramatic drop. As long as the economy is 'good' or 'better', that trend will continue. Another drop would trump that trend." said Bocock.
"In general we see more consumer demand for organic berries, the consumers also understand that organic produce will cost more and they are willing to pay the difference. This is also helping growers to feel more confident about growing organic berries as production for organics is more costly and more variable."
"Locally grown also continues to go well with consumers. We have a natural inclination as human beings to support people who you know and are close to you. It continues down the chain, you would rather go for your own region, if not your own region, then your country, after that it is about trust in the product and the brand name." said Bocock.
Hortifrut and Michigan Blueberry growers (MBG Marketing) decided to join forces back in the year 2000 to create a 52 week program to make them stronger which has made it possible for Naturipe Farms to offer a 52 weeks supply. With production in 18 different states, the company is also in the unique position to answer the call for locally grown for national US major retailers.
Focus switch to better varieties
Many regions across the states are seeing significant growth, as the growth has continued and become very established in other areas, Brian feels that the blueberry industry is going to go through a transformation in the next 15- 20 years with its varieties.
"Now that we have the 52 week supply puzzle figured out, the challenge now is to see how we can provide better quality blueberries. There is a tremendous amount of effort from companies like ours who have our own proprietary breeding programs, to develop better varieties for the consumer, focussing first on flavor, the overall quality of the berry and then the texture. That is probably one of the biggest things now that we are working on." said Bocock.
"We are crossing current varieties in our traditional breeding program where we are attempting to develop a better variety going forward. We are looking at the full 52 week spectrum, all varieties and every production week, to see how we can cross one variety with another variety to create a better variety going forward. It takes about 15 years from the time you make your first cross to the final variety. There is no immediate return on investment which makes it a huge commitment. The company has been busy with this program for the last 12-13 years, which I feel was great foresight on behalf of the founding owners of Naturipe, and we have an excellent breeding program as a result."
Worldwide understanding of blueberries
Another important point of attention is creating a worldwide understanding of blueberries.
"Blueberries have historically been the most successful in the US and Canada, but there is a whole big world out there. For example, UK consumption of blueberries has skyrocketed over the last 15 years. The industry is really focussing on expanding the global expansion of blueberries which should fuel the demand for a profitable blueberry market."
"Flavor rules the day, but quality and texture are a close second. If I am able to have the best tasting blueberry ever but am unable to ship it further than a 100 mile radius without it because soft and messy, then it will also not be viable as a variety. It is about finding a perfect mix off all of those qualities." concludes Brian.
Fo
r more information:Brian Bocock
Naturipe Farms
Tel: +1 (239) 591-1664
Email: [email protected]
www.naturipefarms.com
