Ireland: Minister Doyle launches start to official strawberry season
This year, more than 7,700 tonnes of top quality strawberries will be picked by Irish strawberry growers, with the vast majority of these being picked between now and the end of August, supporting over 1000 jobs.
The Minister said “strawberry production is one of the real success stories in Irish horticulture with a very strong market for the high quality fruit produced by Irish growers. Irish growers have reacted positively to this demand and have expanded production and improved technical efficiency delivering a top quality product.”
The Minister also took the opportunity to urge the public to check Country of Origin and look for the Bord Bia Quality Assurance logo each time they purchase strawberries, or any other fresh fruit and vegetables. “By seeking Irish quality assured produce we are supporting Irish producers, Irish jobs and making the strongest contribution to the Irish economy while also getting excellent value for money through purchase of high quality food that has been produced and delivered to the highest standards with minimal impact on the environment” he said.
The strawberry is the most popular soft fruit eaten in Ireland. They have good health benefits with 8-10 strawberries having the same Vitamin C content as an orange. Bord Bia actively promotes the consumption of at least 5 or more fruit and vegetable portions per day.