49 tons of apricots and 29 tons of Red Label peaches and nectarines: these were the volumes sold last year, which is quite an achievement. In 2020, the sales of apricots and peaches/nectarines were just under 9 and 4.5 tons, respectively. These results are "very encouraging", according to Anne-Lise Chaussabel, arboricultural advisor at the Drôme Chamber of Agriculture. "This trend shows that, although a niche market, apricots, peaches, and nectarines offer a promise of quality that appeals to consumers. We hope that this year will confirm this observation once again."
Apricot harvest potential impacted by 30%
For the time being, in spite of the weather hazards which have had an impact on the harvest potential, the campaign still looks "quite promising," according to Jérôme Jury, president of ODG Qualité Fruits Plus, the group that holds the apricot and peach-nectarine Red Label specifications. "For the first time in 4 years, there was no frost damage in the orchards anywhere in France. A very good season was therefore predicted, but last year's drought resulted in a lower blossom set, thus a moderate fruit load on the trees. For the past three weeks, hot air from the southern Mediterranean has unfortunately resulted in a series of thunderstorms, often accompanied by hail, hitting different areas of the Mediterranean region, further eroding the harvest potential. At the moment, we expect the apricot volumes to be impacted by 30%, which should not create an imbalance between supply and demand likely to drive prices down."
Good harvest potential for Red Label apricots this year
Regarding Red Label apricots, the harvest potentials are likely to be significantly higher than last year. "The producers who belong to the ODG are true specialists. The majority of orchards eligible for the label are protected by anti-hail nets, which means that there should be no decrease in the harvest potential of Red Label apricots. The potential should actually be greater than last year. Thanks to the rain brought in by the storms, there is no shortage of water anymore, and good quality is guaranteed thanks to the heat that returned last week, just as the harvest was about to begin. Since the load on the trees is not too heavy, we are also able to obtain very good quality products with nice sizes to satisfy even more consumers."
The French origin must continue to be promoted
Although the production of labeled apricots is shaping up well, the success of the campaign will depend on consumption. "We need all our clients to continue to promote the French origin and Red Label apricots, peaches, and nectarines. Producing apricots in recent years has become a specialist's job, with expertise increasing year after year, and the quality of the products has improved significantly, with an offer that is now much more in line with consumer expectations. These efforts made by producers must be rewarded and promoted by our clients to their own customers."
A very promising campaign for Red Label peaches and nectarines
As far as peaches and nectarines are concerned, the first Red Label fruits should be on the market as early as next week. "In terms of both quality and quantity, we are very confident about this campaign. There were no irrigation problems in the Gard region last year, so the trees did not suffer any particular stress, which means that they are carrying a high load this year. The success of the campaign will now depend on sales. We already know that the quality of the Spanish origin has been rather disappointing, which should make consumers eager to start the French season," explains Nathalie Bonnet, manager of Domaine des Coteaux.
Motivated and dynamic professionals
Today, ODG Qualité Fruits Plus has 18 members, including 3 new ones. This close-knit and supportive organization enables us to convey the message of quality guaranteed by the Red Label even more effectively. "The 7 marketers who make up the ODG are very dynamic, with a really good working relationship. We have succeeded in setting up something that is transparent and in a good frame of mind, despite all the problems that producers are currently facing, such as the economic context or the rise in production costs.
Having a real sales dynamic generates more motivation, which makes the adventure even more interesting."
Red Label apricots, peaches and nectarines with demanding specifications
The Red Label specifications are extremely rigorous in order to guarantee a fruit of superior quality. "The requirements are relatively similar for apricots, peaches, or nectarines. Only the varieties with a high taste potential are authorized. Ripeness at harvest must be optimal, with high sugar levels and a firmness that allows the fruit to develop well until it reaches the consumer. The fruit must have no visual defects (Extra category), and its time in the fridge is limited since the time between harvest and dispatch is a maximum of 5 days," explains Anne-Lise Chaussabel. The Red Label apricots are packaged in trays of 750g, and the nectarines/peaches are in 4-fruit trays. Packaging in lite trays is also an option this year for clients who are interested.
For more information:
Jérôme Jury
ODG Qualité Fruits Plus
Jerome.jury@wanadoo.fr
Nathalie Bonnet
Domaine des Coteaux
nathalie.bonnet@domaine-coteaux.com
Anne-Lise Chaussabel
anne-lise.chaussabel@drome.chambagri.fr