Around halfway through the English season for home-grown red and green chillies, www.freshfruitportal.com catches up with U.K. grower and supplier Barfoots to discover how the Great British chilli sector is heating up.

Trials of new chilli varieties have been planted on the English south coast to keep pace with increasing demand amongst U.K. consumers looking for that extra capsicum kick in the kitchen. 

In addition to the popular Serenade, Jalapeno and Scotch Bonnet varieties, the Barfoots team is looking for the next generation of chillies to come out of the U.K. by trialing more than 30 varieties.

"There is still a lot of fear and lack of knowledge about chillies so the majority of consumers, whilst interested in trying out new chillies, need more information and inspiration. The number of savvy consumers is definitely increasing," says Barfoots business unit director James Meers.

"Besides the tender loving care proffered to the plants by the growing team, another uniqueness of the business is the trial area where lots of exciting chillies are being tested out.

"We have planted in excess of 30 varietal trials linked to key consumer insights for emerging trends."

The increase in consumer chilli curiosity has led to Barfoots planning a production ramp up next year with a significant expansion plan in the pipeline.

Growing chillies under glass

Barfoots grows chillies in glasshouse structures and is supplying Sainsbury’s, as well as other U.K.-based retailers, this year with the season expected to last until at least September.

"The high levels of sunshine on the south coast, as well as advanced growing techniques produce a fantastic fruit quality and appearance. Several hundred kilos can be harvested in one day and the proximity to our primary packing location means that product can be delivered to store rapidly.

"Using cutting edge growing and harvesting techniques, along with controlled environment, Barfoots has been able to deliver the earlier British chillies on the market.

"We have seen strong yields and consistent quality throughout. We do not export U.K. chillies and this year we are supplying several retailers in the U.K. and have been exploring food service with some of the more exotic varieties."

The growers prefer to concentrate on domestic supply by tapping into the 'buy local' trend, hence continuing to appeal to shoppers is vital for the long-term growth of the British chilli sector.

"The chilli profile varies greatly, from the mild sweety drop reminiscent of a Habanero to the blazing heat of the Brain Strain and everything in between.

"Supporting British farming is really important so we appreciate it when consumers choose the U.K., even if it means spending a bit more when products are in season."

Photo: Wikimedia Creative Commons

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