UK retailer M&S gave their insight on the characteristics of different varieties, what consumers look for in a variety and about the outstanding UK strawberry crop this year in an interview with Innovative Fresh.
"At this moment, the UK berry crop is looking excellent. After a great start in March, the stores are now onto the outdoor strawberry crop, which is huge due to the recent hot weather."
"New variety Malling Centenary is yielding enormous berries, some in excess of 95mm. The weather has also generated high sugar levels, adding to the quality of the fruit."
"The larger berries are easier to pick but have a slightly lower yield, particularly with new varieties."
"Consumer preference is usually for a sweet eating strawberry, therefore a high Brix measurement is favoured. This week M&S berries have hit up to a record 16% sugar levels, as opposed to a more typical 8-9%. Strawberries certainly are tasting great at the moment."
M&S explained that when looking for a great strawberry they look for berries that have good flavour, are attractive to look at with a nice bright colour, are slightly firm to touch for better transport and have a good shelf life.
source: innovativefresh.com
