The British blackberry season is underway, with growers working to raise the profile of the crop as part of the wider berry category. British Berry Growers, which represents 95% of the UK's soft fruit growers, said blackberries are often overlooked because of their association with hedgerows.
© British Berry Growers
Isla Haslam, Marketing Manager at Driscoll's, stated: "When you say 'blackberries', many still think of tart hedgerow fruit and thorny shrubs, but the blackberries on British supermarket shelves offer a different experience entirely. Yes, they are larger, but the real difference is the flavour consistency - sweet, plump and wonderfully juicy, week after week. Thanks to years of variety innovation and growers' care, these are blackberries you can snack on straight from the punnet."
© British Berry Growers
Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert said: "Blackberries are naturally sweet and a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps maintain healthy skin. They also contain antioxidants such as anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple colour. Emerging research suggests anthocyanins may support blood vessel function and cognitive health, including memory. Blackberries are also rich in dietary fibre, which supports healthy digestion and gut function. These qualities make blackberries a versatile addition to breakfasts, whether stirred into yoghurt, blended into a smoothie, or enjoyed straight from the punnet. As a nation, it's worth recognising blackberries not just as a baking ingredient, but as a nutrient-rich fruit that can be easily incorporated into everyday meals and snacking."
Market data shows the category gaining momentum. According to Kantar, in the 12 weeks from the end of April to mid-July, British blackberry volume sales increased by 11%. In the four weeks to mid-July, volumes grew further by 22%.
© British Berry Growers
Nick Marston, Chair of British Berry Growers, said: "By the end of July, our British blackberry growers had supplied almost 1,500 tonnes of blackberries to major UK retailers, a 25% increase year-on-year. This growth is supported by the development of new varieties, bred for improved flavour, larger size, and better shelf life. We need to keep educating consumers about blackberries' great taste, health benefits, and superfood status to keep up the momentum and get blackberries into the nation's breakfast bowls."
© British Berry GrowersFor more information:
British Berry Growers
Tel: +44 (0) 7966 521779
www.britishberrygrowers.org.uk