Indian gherkin growers meet market standards

India produces 10% of the global supply of gherkins. The southern part of the country offers excellent climate conditions for almost year round production. However, increasing Western market standards pose challenges to Indian growers in an already complex market. Rijk Zwaan helps these growers face the challenges.

All gherkins produced in India are produced for export, mainly to Europe and to the United States. Neo Food Private t Ltd is among the top four biggest gherkin exporters of the country. The company owns several production locations where they grow various Rijk Zwaan varieties. Vice president Mr. Sridhar Hebbar: “The gherkin market is very challenging and competitive. We need high quality seeds to meet the increasing demands from the West with regards to appearance and food safety. Several years ago, there was only one seed supplier, so Rijk Zwaan was a very welcome and necessary new player on the market. The seed quality has improved significantly since their arrival.”

Gherkins for the premium market
To develop high quality varieties for the Indian market, Rijk Zwaan can rely on its global network and expertise. “We already have extensive experience in the cultivation of gherkin due to our activities in Europe and Northern America”, Prasanna Damdahalli Gowda, Account Manager Gherkin at Rijk Zwaan India explains. “Combined with our local knowledge and local trials, we are able to develop varieties that are suitable for cultivation in India. As a result, we can offer our growers gherkin hybrids of consistent high quality with the necessary resistances. These varieties yield more first grade gherkins for the premium market and comply to the required environmental and food safety standards. Growing these varieties thus also contributes to the financial stability of the growers.”

On top of the game
High quality seeds are the start, but according to Mr. Sridhar Hebbar, success relies on making the right decision on the right time. “That’s why it is so important for us that Rijk Zwaan offers after sales service. They assist us throughout the entire process and really know us and the market. For me it’s very important to do business with a company that I can trust and that stays on top of the game. We’re looking forward to see what Rijk Zwaan has to offer us next.”

For more information:
Rijk Zwaan
info@rijkzwaan.com
www.rijkzwaan.com