The Arana blueberry variety was developed by Costa in Australia and licensed to Driscoll’s exclusively in the Americas, Australia and China (through the Costa Driscoll’s Joint Venture).
In addition Costa licenses Arana through its majority owned African Blue (Morocco) throughout Africa, providing almost 52 weeks supply to EU and Asia.
"The Arana berry is consistently larger and sweeter than other varieties and it has most of the positives consumers look for – size, taste and shelf life. It has a very good yield and hence it is a lower cost berry to produce," explains Peter McPherson, General Manager Berry International - Costa.
The Arana blueberry season started in July in New South Wales and earlier in Far North Queensland. The season lasts for up to five months depending on location as the berries tend to cycle twice in any one season.
In Australia, Costa grows/licenses around 200Ha of Arana berries and the variety is also licensed to growers in the US, Mexico, Peru, Columbia Chile, China, Morocco, Israel, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Zambia. The total area planted around the world is circa +1000Ha. Production is increasing across all regions.
"We are not quite at a year-round production in Australia with Arana but we are getting closer, as with other licensed territories around the globe."
The Australian Arana blueberries are exported to Asia, under both the Driscoll’s label and under “Fresh Corindi” label.
"The Arana is also showing great promise as a parent in new variety selections. Some early selections are shown in photo above, the smallest berry (3.6g) meets 20ml normal spec for Jumbo berries, so consumers have some exciting times ahead.
"In my opinion the Arana is the best blueberry I have seen, hence why consumers get excited about it, and it consistently delivers a premium price above the rest of the market."
For more information:
Peter McPherson
Berry International - Costa
Tel: +61 2 5646 5506
Email: peter.mcpherson@costagroup.com.au
www.costagroup.com.au