Initial estimates for the French harvest of blueberries The outlook was positive in May, boosted by a spring free of adverse weather events and an active market from the start of the season. Although the peak production period is now behind us, an initial review shows strong consumption, stable prices, and a mixed situation in orchards following the episodes of intense heat.

The French market of blueberries The season continues to show positive signs, although it has also presented significant challenges for producers. The heat wave in June accelerated fruit ripening and raised concerns about potential losses, especially in areas with limited water availability.

Unequal impact across fields

During the spring, production conditions pointed to a good season. However, the heat wave in June generated concern in the sector due to its potential effects on the fruit and the development of the campaign.

Although the most severe damage is concentrated in a few fields, it is still too early to fully assess the consequences of the event. The situation varies considerably between production areas, depending mainly on water availability.

“There was a lot of concern. Some fields have suffered significant losses, but we remain cautious because the effects of water stress may still become evident until the end of the season,” explained Côme Lapierre of the French Blueberry Growers Association.

Producers who have faced water restrictions have also observed a reduction in fruit size.

“Irrigation remains a major challenge for the sector,” Lapierre added.

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A harvest accelerated by the heat

The harvest, which was already ahead of schedule, accelerated even further due to the heat wave.

“We started a week earlier than planned and are now almost ten days ahead of schedule. The main challenge was keeping up with the ripening process. Fields with sufficient manpower were able to harvest on time. In other cases, some of the fruit became overripe, which resulted in a loss of quality,” Lapierre noted.

The increase in temperature forced producers to adjust the harvesting speed to prevent the fruit from remaining on the plant for too long, especially on farms with less available workers.

The market remains active

Despite production challenges, market performance has been positive this season. Consumption has remained strong, and prices have held up well.

Changes in presentation formats, especially the 300-gram trays, may have helped to boost demand, although it will be necessary to wait until the end of the campaign to more accurately assess its impact.

A season still open

The French blueberry season is not yet over. Although local supply remains below consumption levels, the outlook for the French market continues to be encouraging.

“It is still too early to draw conclusions about the season. Several regions still have fruit to harvest, and the full impact of water stress is not yet known. We will conduct a full review once the season is over,” Lapierre concluded.