It all started fifteen years ago when three dedicated growers got involved in the cultivation of this unique apple, the Reine des Reinettes. "At that time, SICA Gerfruit, Cofruid'Oc, and Les Vergers de la Blottière were all producing Reine des Reinettes apples. However, this variety is quite demanding and..." read more

The traditional launch of the French apple pear campaign took place last week in Paris, organized by the French Apple Pear Association (ANPP). The campaign for French apples appears promising, especially considering the situation in Europe. As for pears, the current priority is to diversify varieties and... read more

The Gross Value Added (GVA) of agriculture in the Algarve reached €811 million (US$880 million) in 2023, representing 4% of the region's GVA. Nationally, agriculture accounts for 2.4%, meaning the Algarve's sector is 46% above the national average. These figures were presented at the launch of. read more

Fall Creek is expanding its team in southern Chile to take advantage of the region's suitability for growing varieties with high cold requirements. These varieties are predominantly cultivated in Chile to satisfy the global demand for high-quality fruit during the country's natural production season. read more

India's grape export industry is preparing for a bright future with the introduction of several new grape varieties that could enhance the country's global presence in the grape market," according to Mr. Rajaram Sangle, Director at fresh produce exporter Sangle Agro Processing Pvt. Ltd. He emphasized, "The 2024-25 season is poised to be a significant opportunity for growth and expansion in this sector." read more

On August 29th, the three-day 2025 China International Fruit Expo (China Fruit) successfully concluded at the Shanghai New International Expo Center. The exhibition showcased the vitality and growth potential of the fruit industry, encompassing cultivation, cold chain logistics, packaging. read more

Spain is ranked among the top five most competitive agri-food sectors in the European Union, according to the 2024 Agri-Food Observatory compiled by Cajamar in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. The report highlights Spain's position as the world's seventh-largest exporter of agricultural products. read more

This month, FreshPlaza will be focusing on potatoes and onions. Are you involved in the potato industry as a grower, importer, or marketer? If so, we would love to hear from you. You can send us some information, or we can call you for an interview, just let us know. You can contact us at [contact information]. read more

The grape production in Portugal had to endure heavy rainfall, causing the season to be delayed quite a bit, says Martim Cruz, Commercial Manager of Portuguese grape exporter Hey,Vita! "Every season has its challenges. This year was marked by heavy rainfall during the spring, which caused several setbacks." read more

Between January and July 2025, Ukraine exported 6,200 tons of frozen vegetables valued at $6.1 million, as reported by the State Customs Service. The primary importers were Germany (30.5%), Poland (24.1%), and Italy (10.6%). In the same timeframe, Ukraine imported 7,600 tons of frozen vegetables. read more

Ecuador exported 227.72 million boxes of bananas (each weighing 18.14 kg) between January and July 2025, representing a 4.77% increase over the same period last year, according to data from Acorbanec's Statistics Coordination Office. The European Union remained the main destination, accounting read more

Selecting the sweetest parts of the fruit is a process based on experience that helps us create a final product with a high Brix level. Sweetness is a crucial quality factor for us, whether it's for fresh fruit or processed fruit. We apply the same approach to prickly pears, which we have recently begun processing. read more

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has initiated legal action in the Federal Court against four suppliers and three senior executives for suspected price fixing in the supply of fresh vegetables to ALDI, which violates Australia's laws against cartels. read more

A study published in the journal Nutrients investigated the effects of early-life consumption of blueberries on allergy-related symptoms, gut microbiota, and immune biomarkers. The period of complementary feeding is seen as crucial for influencing immune development, dietary habits, and the progression of gut microbes. read more

Turkey is preparing to introduce a new wholesale market law for the fruit and vegetable trade, replacing the current framework enacted in 2012. Lawmakers are expected to review the draft in the next parliamentary term. The government has presented the reform as a tool to address high prices. read more

The new organic produce season has started again in Belgium in recent weeks. "We started at the end of July or beginning of August. We always aim to have the first leeks ready around this time, as demand from retailers increases and we can begin our programs," says organic grower Pieter. read more

Maintaining quality during longer transits has become a major challenge for Chilean exports. The solution depends not only on the type of packaging but also on combining high-performance preservation methods, specialized technical support, and sustainable materials to ensure the fruit arrives at its destination in optimal condition. read more

In the 2025/2026 season, Spain anticipates a decrease in Spring garlic production as a result of the impact of spring rains. Similarly, Morado garlic production is also expected to decline due to the intense heat experienced since mid-May. "Due to the spring rains, I believe our Spring garlic production per hectare will be lower." read more

Australian-grown produce will be showcased at Asia Fruit Logistica (AFL) 2025, with Hort Innovation coordinating the national representation. The event, taking place from 3 to 5 September at AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, is considered Asia's premier international trade exhibition for fresh fruit and vegetables. read more

Irish shoppers take 37 minutes to do the "big shop" - new research reveals

New research has revealed that Irish shoppers spend an average of 37 minutes doing their "big shop" every week. The research, conducted by Bounce Insights on behalf of ALDI Ireland, surveyed more than 1,000 people. read more