"The introduction of 2 hybrids, Papino® and Neo-Essence® was the culmination of years of research and breeding by the Neofresh R&D team. This team is led by the world renowned Papaya breeder, Dr Aart Louw. Papino® is high in brix and is characterized by firm flesh, giving it a very good shelf-life. Neo-Essence® is super-sweet and has softer flesh. The breeding programme also yielded genetic lines highly resistant to Pythium disease," explains Lean van Schalkwyk, Packhouse, Logistics & Marketing Manager. "We have our own R&D department who are continuously working on new varieties."
The papaya industry has over the years been hampered by seasonal shortages. Neofresh has embarked on an expansion drive to meet all seasonal shortages. This entailed establishing papaya in different locations in South Africa, and most recently also in Mozambique. 42 ha has been established there, with another 80 ha to be established during the 2016/17 summer. Production from Mozambique is due to commence in January 2017.
"Papaya is a tropical crop which we are growing in a subtropical area and that's what gives us the volumes spikes. We are just about to enter our peak harvest time for papaya, October to January. We will harvest on average, 15,000 tons a year. We are seeing an increase in the export markets. All export is done via airfreight."
The papaya, although a traditional fruit in South Africa is still a bit of a niche product, it is not part of the staple diet. Neofresh will embark on a drive to inform consumers of the health benefits derived from the consumption of papaya. These include the digestive advantages of the enzyme papain which is unique to papaya. It is also one of the few fruits that is high in Vitamin C and available all-year-round.
Neofresh also specialises in the production, packing and marketing of litchi. "Through combining location and cultivar we have achieved a five month litchi season for two consecutive years," explains Lean. "Six cultivars ensure seamless production during this period. A large percentage of these trees are still very young, so a better availability is expected on the “shoulders” of this in coming years. An additional 30 ha of litchi has been established in Mozambique, with another 50 ha to be established soon."
Neofresh has also established macadamia, mango and more recently blueberries. The blueberries are grown in co-operation with Eurafruit and entail a 6 ha project under netting in Low’s Creek. The first crop is expected in September 2017.
Neofresh believes its sustainability lies in diversifying the business, giving it exposure to different crops and to both domestic and global markets. For this reason 48 ha of lemons are being established during 2016 & 2017.
For more information:Lean van Schalkwyk
Neofresh
Tel: +27 82 440 2951
Email: lean.van.schalkwyk@neofresh.net
http://neofresh.net/