Demand continues to grow across the UK for sweet and nutrient-packed blueberries, according to new data released by supermarket chain Tesco.
The retailer reports it has seen a 27% rise in interest from consumers, and they will buy nearly 57,000 tonnes of the plump fruit this year. Much of those purchases will come from imports, but growers in the UK have vowed to exponentially expand their numbers in the future from the current 6,000 tonnes.
Tesco says that over the next five years, yields will jump by about 33% thanks to the new production programme and its partnership with Hall Hunter.
“The British crop is extremely popular when in season and we’d love to be able to take more which is why we are working with UK growers on a production programme, guaranteeing them a return and giving them confidence to plant more,” Tesco berries buyer Callum Baker said. “Blueberries are very much the fruit of the moment as they are so popular with all age groups because of their healthy reputation and especially with kids who over the last decade have made them a lunchbox staple.”
Hall Hunter, which boasts four farms across Berkshire and Surrey, will be Tesco’s supplier of blueberries. The group produces an impressive 2,500 tonnes already. But with new grading and packing machines that can pick 600kg per hour, Tesco is expecting to see bigger returns.
“Demand for blueberries is at an all-time high and due to the current popularity we are planting an additional 55 hectares which should produce about 4000 tonnes of fruit once the plants mature,” Hall Hunter Managing Director Jim Floor said. “We’ve tested new varieties and are now growing types that are better suited to the British climate, with both early and later maturing plants that will extend the current UK growing season from mid-June to mid-September.”
Hall Hunter is also creating a new, 70-acre environmentally farm in Surrey that will be for blueberries only.
“All crops are drip irrigated to minimise water usage and we are also building a new reservoir to catch surface water in the winter and store it for use in the summer,” Floor said.
Demand is only likely to increase as consumers seek out convenient snacking options and lean in heavily on their high nutritional properties.
“Blueberries are low in calories, a great source of fibre and are a colourful way to add to your five-a-day health regime with about two handfuls or four heaped tablespoons being considered a portion,” Tesco Nutritionist Laura Farrell said. “They are a source of manganese which is needed to obtain energy from our food, maintain our bones, and helps in the formation of connective tissue. They make the perfect sweet, refreshing summer snack or are great for adding colour and variety to your breakfasts and salads.”
