US-based berry grower-marketer SunnyRidge Farms received its first shipment of raspberries from company-owned farms in Jalisco, Mexico, during the week beginning 8 December.
The first shipment was sold to one of the company’s top retailers, with initial feedback stating the fruit was of excellent quality and presented great flavor, according to a company press release.
“We are pleased with the appearance, flavor, and shelf-life that we are seeing from our raspberries,” said Keith Mixon, president of SunnyRidge Farms. “With the kick-off of our raspberry program from Mexico, we are moving forward with aiming to providing retailers with a great tasting, year-round supply of the most popular berries.”
SunnyRidge is growing both proprietary and non-proprietary varieties at its Mexico operation. Proprietary varieties are from UK breeding firm Redeva, and additional varieties from the University of North Carolina in the US are also being tested as the company continues its commitment to innovation.
“As always, the goal of our research and development projects is to continue to further the industry through the development of berries that will deliver to the retailer and consumer a better tasting, better colored and large berry that is easy to ship and has a longer shelf-life,” said Keith Mixon.
SunnyRidge recently held a grand opening at its new Mexico facility, which was attended by over 200 guests, including Alberto Cárdenas Jiménez, Minister of Agriculture of Mexico, Alvaro García Chavez, Minister of Agriculture of the State of Jalisco, and Emilio González Márquez, Governor of the State of Jalisco.
Sunnyridge expects to grow its Jalisco operations by 10 per cent over the coming year, with the raspberry operation specifically expected to more than double its current size.
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