In Portugal, blueberry production has been underway, in limited volumes, for several weeks. “We work closely with our partner Logofruits there, as they have two growing sites. One of 90 hectares in the southern region of Odemira and another of 70 hectares just south of Lisbon.

Volumes are gradually increasing and prospects are excellent. The plants are uniform and their quality, size and flavor look very promising,” says Harro van Dam from Carsol Europe.

“Last year's regional closure made it difficult to organize the harvest; we could not bring workers to one of the farms. In anticipation of that, we now have 180 rooms for collectors. We will also do mechanical harvest tests this season. In addition, we have invested in refrigeration facilities to ensure better quality. Later this year, we will also install a sorting and packing line.”

“Based on successful tests carried out in 2021, year-round harvesting should be possible in Portugal for the first time this year. Blueberries are of surprisingly good quality. And our different European customers now have the opportunity to buy a more local alternative to agricultural products”. of the southern hemisphere”, concludes Harro.