The future of pea growing on some 150 East Anglian farms has been secured with the signing of a major new contract with Kent-based frozen fruit and vegetable processor Ardo UK Ltd.
Some 180 pea growers were left stranded in February after Birds Eye pulled out of a lucrative contract and Anglian Pea Growers chairman Richard Hirst told freshinfo that the deal, brokered after lengthy negotiations, represents a “huge step” in the future of UK peas.
The deal, worth some £20,000 on average to each of the farmers taking part, will see the peas go to Ardo with Norbert Dentressangle providing freezing services.
Hirst said: “In the last five years the UK has gone from an exporter of peas to a net importer. This will help UK sales of peas and represents a huge step in replacing imports.” The move restores a 60-year tradition of pea growing in the area and will see around 3,500 hectares planted in the spring for harvest next summer.
NFU horticulture board chairman Sarah Pettitt said: “The cancellation of the Birds Eye contract back in February came as a real blow so I’m delighted that East Anglian grown peas will now be back on sale next summer. This is excellent news for the 150 growers involved and for the industry as a whole.”
Next year’s estimated 14,800 tonne crop will see around 3,500 hectares planted in the spring for harvest next summer for supply to Ardo.
The deal will take UK pea production in 2011 up to 130,000 tonnes.
Ardo UK will be funding new pea preparation equipment at a site in Lowestoft and is also looking at investing in a new pea packing line at its Charing head office.
The proposed investment and preparation contract will secure 38 jobs in Lowestoft.
Stephen Waugh, mdof Ardo UK, said: “East Anglian peas are an excellent product, grown to the highest standards. We are delighted to secure this contract, which is very welcome news for both British farmers and consumers. The produce will be grown, prepared, packed and consumed within the UK, adding value at every stage.“
The peas will be harvested from late June and then prepared and frozen within two and a half hours of being picked to ensure maximum flavour and vitamin-value is maintained. The peas will then be packed at Ardo’s premises in Kent ready for sale and distribution.
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