Bord Bia has revealed that strawberries come out on top when it comes to value for Irish shoppers.
The value of the Irish fruit market in 2023 was €823,717, with strawberries accounting for 15.3% of that value.
Next on the list were apples (14.8%) and grapes (12.2%).
Strawberries are also a firm favourite in the summer berry family, with four out of five (79.3% buying them in 2023, compared to 68.6% buying blueberries, 48.4% buying raspberries and 15.2% blackberries.
The news comes as Irish strawberry growers are harvesting for the season.
Bord Bia is encouraging customers to support growers by buying local, fresh strawberries during the key growing season of May to October.
The organisation is also reminding shoppers to look for the Bord Bia Quality Mark to ensure quality, local produce.
‘Support Local Growers’
The sector manager for fresh produce with Bord Bia Lorcan Bourke said, “This data shows that grocery shoppers are consciously choosing strawberries as a ‘must buy food’ when they are shopping.
“This is a great trend for the industry, which was hit with difficulty by the unpredictable weather last summer.
“We would like to encourage consumers to support local growers as they sent to market a fresh crop of strawberries.
“To celebrate the new strawberry season, I urge people to pick up a punnet of fresh, in-season, locally grown strawberries and to continue to buy them all summer long and into the early autumn.”
Not only known for their flavour, strawberries are also popular for their many nutritional benefits, including a high level of Vitamin C to fight fatigue and boost the immune system.
The berries also have a high water content and can aid hydration during warm summer months.
To best enjoy strawberries this summer, Bord Bia recommends storing them in the fridge, leaving stalks on the berries until ready to eat, and bring to room temperature before serving.
