Blueberries are increasingly in demand in the UK

Blueberry consumption in the UK has seen a significant surge, with demand rising by 27% in 2024, making it one of the fastest-growing fruits in the market. The popularity of blueberries is largely due to their health benefits and versatility in food preparation. However, the majority of these berries are imported, primarily from Peru, which accounts for 90% of the UK's supply, leading to a high carbon footprint and potential price volatility. In response to this demand and the challenges of import dependency, UK farmers are working to increase domestic production, with an anticipated 33% growth in the coming years. Tesco is supporting this initiative by partnering with Hall Hunter, a leading UK blueberry grower, to boost domestic production and introduce new blueberry varieties better suited to the British climate, aiming to extend the growing season and reduce reliance on imports. This strategy highlights the potential for British farmers to meet the growing demand for blueberries while reducing the environmental impact and risk associated with import dependency.