Fresh Fruit Portal

10/09/2024

University of Florida scientists are revolutionizing strawberry disease management with artificial intelligence (AI). 🌱💡 Their newly developed Strawberry Advisory System (SAS) uses AI to enhance leaf wetness detection, crucial for preventing fungal diseases like botrytis and anthracnose.
The system has shown nearly 96% accuracy in detecting moisture, offering Florida strawberry growers a valuable tool for effective disease management. 🍓📈

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/10/university-of-florida-use-artificial-intelligence-to-improve-strawberry-disease-detection/

University of Florida scientists' newly published research shows artificial intelligence (AI) can improve leaf wetness detection.

10/09/2024

Empresas Sutil has reached an exciting agreement to acquire California-based National Raisin Company, strengthening its global presence in the dried fruit industry. This strategic move will benefit California raisin growers and expand National Raisin’s reach across North America and Asia. ✨

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/10/empresas-sutil-agrees-to-acquire-nut-company-national-raising-company/

Chilean company, Empresas Sutil reached an agreement to acquire California-based Sunshine Raisin Corporation (National Raisin Company).

10/09/2024

Peruvian blueberry exports are showing a strong recovery in 2024 after a slow start due to climate challenges. Week 35 marked a turning point, with export volumes projected to rise significantly in the coming weeks. With an estimated 27.67% increase in production for the 2024/25 campaign, Peru continues to lead the global blueberry export market. 🌍🫐

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/10/peruvian-blueberry-exports-rebound-in-week-35/

In this installment of the ‘Agronometrics In Charts’ series, we look at the growth in Peruvian blueberry exports.

10/09/2024

Westfalia Fruit expands into Asia! 🌏🥑 With new markets in India, Japan, and China, South African avocados are reaching millions of new consumers. A win for growers and health-conscious foodies alike!

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/10/the-impacts-and-strategies-of-westfalias-avocado-expansion-in-asia/

Recently, Westfalia Fruit announced the entry of South African avocado to the Japan and India, as well as their expansion in China.

09/09/2024

📊 Food Insecurity on the Rise in 2023 🍽️📉 The 2023 USDA Household Food Security Report shows a concerning increase in food insecurity, affecting 13.5% of U.S. households. Child food insecurity remains steady at 8.9%. This highlights the ongoing need for initiatives to support those in need.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/09/2023-household-food-security-report-shows-higher-prevalence-of-food-insecurity/

The latest U.S. Agriculture Department Household Food Security in the United States report is based on the Current Population Survey (CPS) Food Security Supplement data collected by the U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the Census, in December 2023.

09/09/2024

🌟🍇 Peru’s Organic Cape Gooseberry: AgroAndino’s Success Story! 🇵🇪✨ AgroAndino, founded by Reinhard Schedlbauer, is making waves with its premium organic Cape gooseberries! With 138 acres currently planted and plans to expand, they’re setting the bar high for quality and innovation. Plus, they're venturing into blueberries with organic and Global GAP certifications on the horizon! 🌱💚

Founded in 2006 by the German national and current CEO Reinhard Schedlbauer, AgroAndino currently leads organic Cape gooseberry production in the country.

09/09/2024

🇵🇪🥑 Guatemalan Avocado Industry Prepares for U.S. Market Debut in 2025 🌟 Guatemala’s Hass avocado sector is on the verge of entering the U.S. market, with APHIS having confirmed that the fruit meets the required risk-assessment standards. As the consultation process concludes, the sector eagerly awaits final confirmation.
This move highlights Guatemala's growing potential and competitiveness in the global avocado market. 🌱

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/09/guatemalan-avocado-industry-preparing-for-2025-u-s-debut/

FreshFruitPortal.com spoke to Guatemalan Avocado Producers Association (Anaguacate) President Francisco Viteri Garcia-Gallont.

09/09/2024

🌍🌱 Happy World Agriculture Day! 🌾🚜 Today, we celebrate the incredible work of farmers across North America and around the globe, who play a crucial role in cultivating and feeding our communities. 🌽🥦

Did you know that agriculture contributes approximately $1 trillion to the U.S. economy and supports over 21 million jobs? 🌾📊 It’s essential for food security and economic growth.

A big thank you to all the dedicated farmers who face daily challenges to ensure we have fresh, high-quality food. 👩‍🌾👨‍🌾 Your hard work is truly appreciated!

09/09/2024

🇧🇷🌍 Japan Opens Market to Brazilian Hass Avocado 🥑 Brazilian Hass avocados are now making their way to Japan, following recent market expansions to Costa Rica. This move opens up significant opportunities for Brazilian agribusiness and diversifies the fruit supply for Japan, a key global market. With rigorous phytosanitary standards in place, Brazil is set to meet Japan’s high-quality expectations. 🌱📈

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/09/japan-opens-its-market-to-brazilian-hass-avocado/

Earlier this year it gained entry to Costa Rica and now Japan welcomes the Hass variety produced in the South American giant.

09/09/2024

📊 Record Year for U.S. Horticulture Exports 🌍 The USDA’s latest report forecasts U.S. agricultural exports to hit a record $173.5 billion in FY 2024, driven by a significant increase in horticultural exports. 🍎🌽 Horticulture alone is set to reach $41.5 billion, with fresh fruits and vegetables seeing major growth. 🍇🍉

Imports are expected to rise to $212.0 billion, with a notable increase in horticultural and processed products. 📈

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/09/record-year-for-horticulture-exports-according-to-usda-latest-ag-trade-outlook-report-for-2024-25/

The USDA has shared its Economic Research Service and Foreign Agricultural Service Situation and Outlook Report for August.

06/09/2024

Fairtrade International has launched a new reference price tool to enhance sustainability in supply chains. This digital tool allows companies to determine the prices needed to ensure living incomes and wages for workers. Accessible via the Fairtrade International website, it features an interactive map for users to explore living income reference prices by commodity or country. The Fairtrade Impact Map further provides data on over 100 Fairtrade projects globally. This initiative underscores Fairtrade's commitment to improving the lives of farmers and workers through trade.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/06/fairtrade-international-creates-reference-price-tool/

Fairtrade International has built a new reference price tool to make it easier for companies to pay workers living incomes and living wages.

06/09/2024

University of Florida scientists have identified new nematode species threatening Florida's dragon fruit, guava, and passion fruit crops. This discovery is crucial for developing effective control methods.
Many growers had mistakenly attributed issues like yellowing leaves and stunted growth to water and nutrient deficiencies. With this breakthrough, researchers aim to improve soil health and ensure the sustainability of tropical fruit production in the state. Abolfazl Hajihassani's team is using advanced techniques to tackle this challenge head-on.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/06/florida-scientists-uncover-root-causes-threatening-guava-passion-fruit-and-dragon-fruit/

University of Florida scientists have identified the root causes threatening health and productivity of some of the state's tropical fruits.

06/09/2024

SEKOYA® introduces the LIVIE™ Dispenser, an innovative solution addressing the new European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) set to become EU law by 2030. Designed to comply with the ban on single-use plastic packaging for fresh produce, this dispenser offers a simple, eco-friendly way to serve blueberries.

Featuring a patented ‘Eco Box’ for no direct fruit contact, the dispenser is easy to clean and comes with flexible packaging options, including reusable, compostable, or recyclable materials. With the LIVIE™ Dispenser, SEKOYA® is paving the way for sustainable fruit distribution.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/06/the-livie-dispenser-by-sekoya/

The LIVIE Dispenser only functions with LIVIE™ selected blueberries that meet a defined quality standard.

06/09/2024

The FDA's new rules on pre-harvest agricultural water use are set to impact fresh produce exports to the U.S. These regulations aim to identify and mitigate hazards that could affect produce or food contact surfaces. As explained during the 8th Jalisco Avocado Congress, the focus is on timely corrective actions to ensure food safety.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/06/fdas-new-rules-on-agricultural-water-use-for-imported-fruit/

Earlier this year, the FDA imposed new rules on the use of agricultural water during pre-harvest for fresh produce imports to the U.S.

06/09/2024

Argentina's blueberry season is off to a challenging start with a 10% production loss due to frosts. While delays have impacted exports, reduced supplies from Peru present new opportunities for Argentine growers. As of week 35, 151 tons have been shipped, marking a 30% decrease from last year.

The industry remains resilient and hopeful for the season ahead.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/06/argentine-blueberry-season-delayed/

Jorge Pazos, president of the Argentine Blueberry Committee, explained to FreshFruitPortal.com that climatic issues delayed the start of the season.

05/09/2024

🌰📊 The USDA’s latest report estimates the 2024 California walnut crop at 670,000 tons, a 19% decrease from 2023. With 370,000 bearing acres, the industry anticipates delivering the high-quality walnuts California is known for, despite the smaller crop size.

Read more about the industry's outlook and initiatives for the upcoming year:

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/05/2024-california-walnut-industry-crop-estimate-released/

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the official 2024 California Walnut Industry Objective Measurement Report

05/09/2024

Day 2 of Asia Fruit Logistica concluded successfully, with exceptional feedback from attendees and a series of productive meetings. The Asia Fruit Awards honored Hort Innovation and Avocados Australia for their outstanding marketing campaign, while Joy Wing Mau Group was recognized as Importer of the Year.
Discover more about the event here:

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/05/day-2-of-asia-fruit-logistica-ends-on-a-high-note/

The event organizers said the feedback has been fantastic, with everyone excited to return to Hong Kong, the heart of Asia's fresh produce industry.

05/09/2024

🍓🌏 Nova Siri Genetics (NSG) partners with Mahaberry and 8 Berries in India! New strawberry varieties are on the horizon as NSG expands its reach. What’s next for the Indian berry market?

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/05/nova-siri-genetics-strawberry-varieties-india-debut/

NSG announced the partnership with India-based companies to develop new varieties and commercialize, experiment with, and multiply current ones for the Indian market.

05/09/2024

🥑📈 Avocado sales hit new highs during the second quarter holidays in 2024! Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day, and Father's Day saw a remarkable increase in sales, with a total of $191.6M generated. Curious about what made this year stand out?

Read the full report:

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/05/avocado-sales-soared-on-second-quarter-holidays/

Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day, and Father's Day, generated the highest growth rates in 2024. Combined, all three holidays sold 154.6 million avocado units.

05/09/2024

🍒🇨🇱 The early cherry harvest in Chile is just around the corner, and producers in Coquimbo are preparing for the season. Jorge Astudillo shares insights on projections and challenges. How will this affect the Chinese market?

Find out here:

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/05/early-chilean-cherry-growers-preparing-for-harvest/

Early Chilean cherry harvest is about to begin, with the industry preparing for another successful campaign in the Chinese market.

04/09/2024

🔥 Forest Fires in São Paulo: Minor Impact on Citrus Production 🍊

The recent forest fires in São Paulo have impacted some citrus-growing areas, but the overall effect on fruit availability is minimal. Cepea reports that the fires were quickly controlled and helped by recent rainfall. Prices for pear oranges remain strong, with historical levels for both fresh and industrial segments due to a limited supply and firm demand.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/04/forest-fires-in-citrus-growing-areas-of-brazil-to-have-minor-impacts/

The recent forest fires in several areas of the state of São Paulo, Brazil, have concerned members of the citrus industry.

04/09/2024

📈 IBO Report Highlights Continued Growth in Blueberry Industry 🍇

The International Blueberry Organization's (IBO) 2024 report reveals impressive growth trends in the global blueberry market. President Mario Steta notes increased planted areas and expanding volumes across key regions, including Peru, Eastern Europe, the Mediterranean, North America, and China. New emerging regions in Asia and Africa are also set to boost industry volume. Despite past disruptions from El Niño, the industry is poised for continued expansion with a preliminary 2024 volume of 2,050 MT.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/04/new-international-blueberry-organization-2024-report-shows-blueberry-industry-shows-continuous-growth/

IBO just released its 2024 report that dives into the new trends and developments happening in the blueberry market worldwide.

04/09/2024

📉 Decline in US Farm Sentiment: Purdue University/CME Group Ag Economy Barometer Report 🚜

The August Ag Economy Barometer dropped to 100, reflecting significant concerns among U.S. farmers about future income prospects. With a decrease in both the Index of Current Conditions and the Index of Future Expectations, and a sharp drop in the Farm Financial Performance Index, this survey signals potential extended weakness in farm incomes. Farmers are increasingly worried about declining crop prices, shifting their primary concerns from high input costs to lower commodity prices.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/04/weakening-us-farm-income-prospects-weigh-on-farmer-sentiment/

Weakening farm income prospects weighed on farmers' sentiment as the outlook for a bountiful fall harvest was more than offset by declining crop prices.

04/09/2024

🌍 Fruitbox Ltd. Becomes Exclusive Agent for Zespri Kiwifruit in East Africa 🥝

Fruitbox Ltd. is proud to announce its new exclusive partnership with EastPack Ltd., representing the Zespri brand in Kenya. This move will streamline the supply chain and cold storage, reducing costs and ensuring the highest quality of kiwifruit for East Africa's consumers. Fruitbox’s modern facilities and established distribution channels will now provide fresh Zespri kiwifruit more efficiently than ever.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/04/fruitbox-becomes-exclusive-agent-for-zespri-brand-in-east-africa/

Fruitbox Ltd. recently partnered with New Zealand post-harvest operator EastPack Ltd. to supply Zespri brand kiwifruit to Kenya.

04/09/2024

🌏 Westfalia Fruit Expands into Key Asian Markets 🥑

Westfalia Fruit celebrates a major milestone with its expansion into Japan, India, and China. This achievement underscores their commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning South African avocados as premium produce in these high-potential regions. The recent agreements with Japan and the successful entry into India mark significant steps in strengthening global trade relations.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/04/westfalia-fruit-expands-its-reach-into-three-key-asian-markets/

Westfalia Fruit announced the celebration of a significant milestone by expanding its footprint into Japan, India, and China.

04/09/2024

🌍 Report Reveals U.S. Avocado Suppliers Continue Sourcing from Deforested Mexican Land 🥑

A new study by Climate Rights International, in collaboration with Guardián Forestal, alleges that U.S. avocado suppliers are still sourcing from Mexican orchards on illegally deforested land. Despite previous warnings, deforestation and water shortages persist. This issue highlights the urgent need for responsible sourcing and environmental accountability in the avocado supply chain.

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/04/report-shows-us-avocado-sellers-continue-sourcing-from-deforested-mexican-land/

The report suggests suppliers were informed of the deforestation within their supply chains in a report published by the company in 2023

03/09/2024

🇮🇳🔍 India Strengthens Phytosanitary Measures for Polish Blueberry Imports 🍇🇵🇱

India is intensifying its phytosanitary regulations for imported blueberries, focusing specifically on Polish fruit. The new measures require that blueberries from Poland be sourced from orchards registered with the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) and come with certificates ensuring they are free from pests like Acalitus vaccinii and diseases such as Pseudomonas viridiflava.

This move aims to safeguard India’s $60 million blueberry market, which is experiencing significant growth due to increased consumer awareness of its health benefits. The Indian government has also reduced customs duties on certain blueberry and cranberry varieties to support import activities. 📈🌍

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/03/india-imposes-strict-measures-for-polish-blueberry-imports/

As blueberry consumption and imports in India continue rising, the country is imposing further measures on phytosanitary requirements.

03/09/2024

🍇📈 Peruvian Table Grape Volume Set for Growth in 2024-2025 🌍🇵🇪

The Peruvian Association of Table Grape Producers and Exporters (PROVID PERU) projects a significant increase in grape exports for the 2024-2025 season, with an estimated 78.7 million boxes to be shipped.

Despite climatic challenges in the northern zone last season, recovery is expected, thanks to the industry’s resilience and adaptability. Peru is set to reach over 50 markets, including the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and China.
With major production areas in Ica and Piura, Peru continues to drive economic growth and promote sustainable practices within the grape cultivation sector. 🌱🍇

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/03/first-2024-25-peruvian-grape-estimate-projects-volume-uptick/

The Peruvian grape industry has demonstrated resilience reflected in its capacity to adapt to changing consumer preferences.

03/09/2024

🥑🌟 Chile’s Avocado Season Goes Big 📈🇨🇱

Exciting news for avocado lovers! Chile's Hass avocado harvest is projected to reach 200,000 tons this season, a 33% increase from last year. With 55% allocated for local consumption and 90,000 tons for export, Europe remains the top destination.

Carmen Gloria Lüttges highlights improved weather and fruit set as key factors driving this growth. 🌍🥑

Read more in our bio link

03/09/2024

🥑📈 Chile's Hass Avocado Harvest Surges 🌟🇨🇱

Chile is gearing up for an impressive Hass avocado season with an expected harvest of 200,000 tons for 2024-25—an increase of 33% from the previous year.

With 55% of the harvest destined for domestic consumption and 90,000 tons for export, Europe remains the primary market. Carmen Gloria Lüttges attributes this boost to favorable weather and better fruit set, underscoring Chile’s pivotal role in the global avocado market. 🌍🥑

https://www.freshfruitportal.com/news/2024/09/03/more-chilean-hass-avocado-available-this-season/

A significant increase is expected for the Hass avocado season in Chile, which begins in September according to the Chilean Avocado Committee.