NZ Blueberry Industry Sounds Alarm Over MPI Import Plan
Blueberry growers are warning that fresh imports could pose a huge biosecurity risk for NZ’s horticulture sector.
This is despite the season getting off to a rough start with October's hard frost (-4.8 degrees c).
Blueberries New Zealand executive member Jeremy Wylie says despite recent frosts wiping out entire orchards in the Waikato, there will be enough stock for the Christmas holiday season.
"We know the demand for Blueberries is high, as data over the last few years has shown massive buyer growth for our fruit," Wylie explains.
"It is one of our most challenging years, but we are very keen to ensure New Zealanders get to enjoy our healthy, delicious fruit this year."
He says there's been a massive upswing in consumption for blueberries - particularly since the pandemic, as people are looking for the healthiest fruit and vegetable available.
"Blueberries are the perfect little snack, full of dietary fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and vital antioxidants," Wylie says.
The blueberry season is traditionally from October to April.
