1423 fig growers Eurepgap certified
Alara introduces first optical electronic fig packing line

Tholen - The Turkish fresh export company Alara observes an increased popularity of figs, which is one of its major export products. Year after year, the exports increased fuelled by a developing demand. Early estimates figure the Turkish fig export volume at 10.000 MT this year, while as much as 60% of the national crop is exported. The major export markets for Alara figs are Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, Scandinavia, and the UK.

While there are some fig varieties that are used for decoration purposes, Alara packs its figs close to the ready-to-eat stage, which is different from many other fig varieties. “Fig is one of the first fruits of mankind. It has its place in every holy book. Everybody knows and consumes dried figs, but still too few people know that fresh figs also exist to be enjoyed,” says Kerim Taner, CEO of Alara. “It is our job is to make people realize this, through in-store tasting programs, leaflets, and recipes in gourmet magazines. The fruit is getting more and more popular.”



During last years’ fig season, Alare won Tesco’s Value’s Award. The company achieved another record with the number of growers that are Eurepgap certified for figs. A total of 1423 fig growers were Eurepgap certified under Alara’s Product Marketing Organisation last week, while 109 are also certified for Teco’s Nature’s Choice at GOLD level.

The unique Bursa Black fig variety, which enjoys a National Patent in Turkey, is famous for being the best fig variety in the world. It is mainly cultivated in the Bursa region south of Istanbul. While large in size, it has full texture, a high juice content and a sweet taste. Furthermore, this fruit has a long durability for truck shipments and a long shelf life in stores.

In 2007, Alara was the first packer in the industry worldwide to invest in an optical electronic fig packing line. “We are 10 steps ahead of the competition,” says Taner. This move again illustrates Alara’s dedication to R&D and innovation, striving for perfection in quality.

For more information about Turkish figs, contact:

Alara Agri
Kerim Taner
Email
Website


Picture taken from Tesco shelves during 2006 fig promotion which quadrupled weekly fig sales at Alara.

Publication date: 8/15/2007
Author: Andre van der Wiel
Copyright: www.freshplaza.com

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