The Innovation Hub Awards recognise products for innovation, sustainability, and market impact. Among 50 entries, Tutti was selected as a new apple variety developed to perform well in warmer climates where traditional apples often face challenges. It combines eating quality with flavour notes described as honey and melon, with adaptability to climate pressures.
Tutti is the outcome of more than 20 years of research by the Hot Climate Partnership (HCP), a collaboration between the Bioeconomy Science Institute, IRTA (Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology, Catalonia), Fruit Futur (Catalonia), and VentureFruit. The partnership works on breeding apple and pear varieties able to cope with rising temperatures and water scarcity while maintaining consumer-acceptable quality.
© New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science Limite
Emma Brown, General Manager of Plant Varieties at the Bioeconomy Science Institute, said: "Winning the Innovation Hub Award at Fruit Attraction is an incredible recognition for Tutti and the science behind it. This award puts a spotlight on the power of international collaboration and shows that the world is ready for climate-resilient apples that don't compromise on taste, quality, or sustainability. For us, it's a proud moment that validates more than two decades of research and signals a bright future for growers and consumers alike."
Morgan Rogers, VentureFruit General Manager, added: "Globally, we are seeing constant reminders of the need for climate-resilient varieties, with the increased frequency of intense weather events continuing to impact production in both hemispheres. Innovative varieties from the Hot Climate Partnership, such as Tutti, are enabling growers to meet these challenges while delivering an outstanding consumer experience and preference."
Since its commercial launch in 2023, more than 900 hectares of Tutti have been planted internationally under VentureFruit licensing agreements, including orchards in Spain, South America, the United Kingdom, and China. A new agreement with Chinese producer Joy Wing Mau includes a further 300 hectares.
According to VentureFruit, the variety has been established through a structured process involving grower support and network management. For growers, Tutti is presented as a variety suited to hot summer conditions, with potential for stable production and pack-out rates. For consumers, it offers an additional apple option positioned as climate-adapted.
For more information:
New Zealand Institute for Bioeconomy Science Limited
Tel: +64 (0) 21 242 9365
Email: [email protected]
www.plantandfood.com
