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Domestic production of blueberries is increasing despite import pressure.
Almost 10,600 tonnes of berries were harvested in Switzerland this year, as the latest figures from the Swiss Fruit Association show. The cultivation of blueberries in particular has increased.
The production of blueberries in Switzerland is worthwhile despite import pressure, as farmer Matthias Müller confirms. Strawberries, raspberries, currants and blueberries grow on his 15-hectare family farm. He sells his goods through retail and in his own farm shop.
We have the advantage that we can harvest the berries today and sell them tomorrow.
The taste of his hand-picked berries could set him apart from foreign ones, Müller explains: “We have the advantage that we can harvest the berries today and sell them tomorrow.” That also works with blueberries, even if there is a free market there.
Dairy farm was yesterday
From his experience working in sales, the farmer knows that blueberries are trendy. “I can sense that consumers want snacks, and berries are a perfect fit because they are aromatic and sweet, but also healthy,” he says.
I can sense that consumers want snacks, and berries are a perfect fit because they are aromatic and sweet, but also healthy.
Matthias Müller’s parents used to run dairy farming and then switched to berries. Despite the strong competition, berry farmer Müller recognized the potential of berries years ago. And he is confident that the growth will continue.