According to a new TNS Worldpanel report, the value of strawberry sales in Ireland reached €46 million in 2007, an increase of 25% since 2006. These figures were released today at the launch of Ireland’s inaugural National Strawberry Week, which takes place from 2nd – 8th June 2008.
National Strawberry Week, organised by the Irish Soft Fruit Growers Association in conjunction with Bord Bia and the IFA, will celebrate the health and nutritional benefits of the delicious red berry fruit. The campaign aims to encourage consumers to enjoy more strawberries as we approach the summer season and Irish crops are at peak production. National Strawberry Week will include a consumer information campaign, primary school activities and the launch of a dedicated interactive website to include delicious seasonal recipe suggestions.
Mike Neary, Manager of Horticulture, Bord Bia commented “With the promotion of healthy eating habits becoming ever more prevalent, the benefits of fruit consumption are being well advertised, therefore generating increased consumer interest and demand for fresh fruit. Strawberries are an increasingly popular choice among consumers as a tasty, low calorie, convenient snack. We hope this campaign will encourage the public to eat more strawberries within the optimum Irish production season.”
Gary McCarthy, Irish Soft Fruit Growers Association, added “2007 was a great year for strawberry sales and 2008 looks set to be even better as we are expecting a bumper harvest this year. We look forward to meeting the growing demand for high quality strawberries with a crop that is juicier, tastier and bigger than ever before.”
Strawberries are an ideal healthy treat, low in calories and provide the perfect way to get one of the five or more recommended portions of fruit and vegetables a day. A nutrient packed fruit, they are filled with antioxidants giving the body a natural wellness boost. Strawberries are naturally high in fibre, vitamin C and potassium; help maintain a healthy heart and can aid memory function. They taste delicious sprinkled over breakfast cereals, in salads, smoothies or indeed can be enjoyed straight from the punnet.