The golden berry, called uvilla in Ecuador, uchuva in Colombia, and aguaymanto in Peru, has shifted from a local Andean fruit to a growing presence in the international market, explains Denis Brito Madrid of Golden Sweet Spirit.
© Golden Sweet Spirit
"The uvilla, once considered just a backyard fruit, is now known for its high vitamin A, carotene, and antioxidant benefits," Brito stated. Studies show that its carotenoid levels are similar to those in carrots, aiding vision and immune health.
© Golden Sweet Spirit
Golden Sweet Spirit has successfully positioned the product in the berry segment in the United States, placing it alongside strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries. "The change of location on the shelves helped increase consumption by making it more visible to the North American consumer. This strategy has been fundamental in consolidating the presence of Golden Berry in supermarkets on the East and West Coasts of the country, as well as in Canada and, to a lesser extent, Europe," says Brito.
© Golden Sweet Spirit
The Ecuadorian company operates year-round production and harvesting, ensuring a steady supply for its customers. "We currently cultivate approximately 100 hectares, but our growth plan aims to expand to 500 hectares by 2026, through a combination of our own farms and partnerships with allied producers adhering to GlobalG.A.P. and food safety standards," he highlighted.
© Golden Sweet Spirit In addition to fresh fruit, Golden Sweet Spirit also develops derivative products such as dehydrated items, chocolates, and liqueurs, adopting a circular-economy approach. Brito summarizes, "Every gram produced must have added value; otherwise, it isn't a business."
"Golden berry is sold to the end consumer in the United States for $25 to $35 per kilogram, usually in 4 to 12-ounce packages. However, the high cost of air freight remains a challenge, so the company is exploring maritime options to cut logistics expenses," he says.
Golden Sweet Spirit became the first golden berry producer to be certified carbon neutral. "We achieved this milestone after seven years of work on energy efficiency, measuring our carbon footprint, and offsetting emissions through forest conservation projects endorsed by the UN. It's not just about meeting standards; it's about producing responsibly. If we don't take action now, there will be no sustainable future," Brito stressed.
© Golden Sweet Spirit For more information:
Dennis Brito
Golden Sweet Spirit
Ecuador
Tel: +593 9 9142 3343
Email: [email protected]
www.golden.ec
