In the Okanagan, Canada, roadside fruit stands filled with fresh strawberries signal the season's peak, unlike some grocery stores where the origin of berries highlights a purchasing challenge. B.C. growers face a competitive market as American strawberries retail at a lower price.
At a downtown Kelowna Safeway, American strawberries were available for $2.99 per 454 grams, contrasting with B.C. strawberries priced at $6.99 per 340 grams. Locally, Sat Mohinder Tejay's family farm offers berries directly to consumers at $5 for 543 grams. "We're selling at a wholesale price here, way cheaper than stores," he observed. His farm has supplied fruit locally since 2019, distributing to various outlets and their own stand.
Despite good business this year, Tejay notes, "It's going to affect me. And they have garbage stuff that they're shipping here." He stresses that local purchasing supports community economies, asserting, "All Canadians, we should help each other here. All farmers, local farmers. That'd be good for the country."
Weather conditions have challenged Okanagan farmers, with cold winters and hot summers impacting yields. Recently, Tejay reported losing some early strawberries due to a night-time temperature drop to -3°C. "Early flowers died, but the second one is coming up now," he mentioned. Nonetheless, he remains committed to operating the farm stand until winter.
Source: Infotel
