South African raisins record strong seasonal crops for the global bakery sector

The bakery sector has reportedly seen high volumes and exceptional quality from South Africa’s key production region of currants this Easter, according to the country’s industry association. Its currant crops are grown exclusively in the Olifants River valley region in the Western Cape, which represents 12% of the nation’s raisin production. According to Raisins South Africa, the region has experienced excellent growing conditions for South African currants so far this year, and as a result, the quality of this year’s crop has been reported by packers as excellent. The dry, sunny Mediterranean climate of the valley, along with the ample supply of water from the Olifants River catchment area, makes ideal growing conditions to produce the highest quality raisins in the Southern Hemisphere. South Africa is the second largest producer of currants in the world, producing 4000 – 5000 tonnes per year. The currants have a small berry count, making the variety perfect for even product ...