Belgian berry importer Special Fruit has launched its blueberry season with an organic range under the BerryFresh label. 

The organic specialist works with Portuguese growers at the Mirtisul blueberry plantation in the Alentejo region where ideal growing and climate conditions produce varieties including Sharp Blue, Misty, O'Neal, Georgia Gem and Star grown across 14 hectares.

A release said the harvest was carried out completely by hand, and berries were placed in punnets while still in the field to minimize manipulation.

"Special Fruit believes in the development of the organic segment, considering it a good supplement to its product range. Organic products are healthier for people and the environment," purchase manger Piet Meerkerk said.

"In 2012, the company invested in a partnership with a grower of organic blueberries, amongst others."

The surge in demand for organic blueberries continues across Europe and especially in the U.K. market, with many health conscious consumers looking to make the most of the relatively short seasonal window.

"Blueberries combine fantastic flavor with amazing health benefits. What is more, research has shown that organic blueberries contain more fructose, which only enhance the flavor of these berries. In other words, a quality product.

"The company developed a special BerryFresh label for these berries, which emphasize the beneficial properties of organic berries as well as making the products even easier to recognize for health-conscious consumers."

The BIOgarantie logo is also included on the label to guarantee the product derives from organic farming.

Special Fruit's BerryFresh blueberries will be available until mid-June and represent an overall volume of approximately 140 metric tons (MT).

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www.freshfruitportal.com