Belgian co-operative BelOrta has announced the introduction of a domestically cultivated berry variety known as the Japanese honeyberry.
According to commercial manager Jo Lambrecht, the berry, which closely resembles a blueberry in appearance, is extremely rich in antioxidants with a flavour that combines cherry, raspberry and blueberry.
'This is the first time we've had Japanese honeyberries in our range,' he told eurofruit, 'and every year we expect the volume to rise.'
The berry will form part of BelOrta's sizeable organic range, along with other berry varieties including redcurrants, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries and kiwiberries.
'With more than 80ha of organic berry production, it has become a considerable part of our total offer,' said Lambrecht. 'The importance of organic berries is increasing year by year. Many consumers have picked up on the idea that organic berries are a healthy alternative to daily snacks.'
