British berry lovers could get their favourite fruits all year round thanks to three new UK government-funded research projects which could revolutionise Scottish berry production.
Environment secretary Liz Truss announced that £1.3 million from the government’s £70m Agri-Tech Catalyst has been awarded to projects led by the James Hutton Institute and James Hutton Limited, both based in Dundee, to help Scottish producers meet the growing demand for homegrown berries.
The projects will use the latest advancements in understanding plant genetics to identify traits in raspberries that make them more resilient to pests and diseases, and traits in blueberries that are better adapted to growing in Scotland’s cooler climate.
It is hoped that super-resilient berries could provide a sweeter deal for Scottish growers by boosting berry yields and extending the UK’s berry growing season, allowing consumers to buy their punnets all year round, and enabling Scottish producers to cash in on the huge demand for blueberries.
Truss said: “Scottish berries are up there with Scottish beef and lamb as a top quality UK product and this research will only enhance our reputation for producing good food both here and abroad”.
“These projects demonstrate that by investing in the most cutting-edge techniques, and working collaboratively across the UK to raise standards, we can boost productivity and help more Scottish and UK producers to compete in international markets.”
Professor Bob Ferrier, director of research impact at the James Hutton Institute, said: “This research is essential for the sustainability and commercial success of the Scottish and UK berry industry.
'Through the UK government’s investment in applying scientific innovation to address challenges faced across the agri-food supply chain, we can help producers grow more robust, disease resistant soft fruit varieties that are better suited to the UK market and climate.”
The announcement comes during Scotland’s Year of Food and Drink, which aims to promote Scotland’s produce and its key role in UK’s food and farming sector.
The Agri-Tech Catalyst - part of the government’s £160m Agri-Tech Strategy - is designed to support innovative businesses, and to help researchers develop collaborative solutions to global agricultural challenges across the UK.
In addition to the £1.3m of government funding, industry has also invested a further £700k in the berry projects.
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