Macfrut Academy, a new video lesson on the Blueberry Supply Chain

The latest episode of the Macfrut Academy focuses on blueberries, with a particular emphasis on technology and packaging. The second video lesson on one of the world’s most dynamic fruit and vegetable products will be released on Thursday 6 March at 5 pm (Italian time). The blueberry supply chain will once again take centre stage at the next edition of Macfrut (Tuesday 6 - Thursday 8 May, Rimini Expo Centre), with a dedicated Berry Area for blueberries and soft fruits. 

In order to access the episode, which is available free of charge, registration on the Academy platform is required: https://academy.macfrut.com/ 

The rapid and sustained development of the blueberry market can also be attributed to advances in technology that have allowed the blueberry supply chain to grow. The first video lesson of the Macfrut Academy dedicated to blueberries covered aspects related to variety innovation and cultivation techniques, while the second lesson, scheduled for next Thursday, will take a closer look at sorting technologies and packaging solutions, with a special focus on Spain and Morocco. 

Blueberries can be a very rewarding crop for growers, but it takes a very rigorous approach to ensure a high-quality product is delivered to consumers. To achieve this, technology can be an invaluable asset, such as that developed by Unitec, an Italian company that designs complete lines for sorting and packing blueberries, combining speed, accuracy and gentle fruit handling.

No longer an emerging country in the Mediterranean, Morocco is now the world’s eighth largest blueberry producer and is strengthening its position as a major player in this category year on year. In fact, between 2020 and 2023, the production of blueberries for the fresh products sector increased by 55%. This trend is continuing, partly due to a shift in production: blueberries are now being grown in areas previously used for strawberries and raspberries. Morocco has three main production areas: the provinces of Kenitra and Larache in the north of the country, the province of Agadir and, further south, the Dakhla region. 

The Academy worked with BestBerry, a cooperative in northern Morocco founded in 2017, to analyse the Moroccan model, examining current trends and business organisation.

As consumers, we often tend to focus on the taste and health benefits of blueberries. However, both the distribution of blueberries and the consumer’s decision to buy them are significantly influenced by the way they are packaged. Packaging is more than just an aesthetic choice: it is an essential strategic element in ensuring that products are fresh, safe and sustainable, and plays a key role in attracting consumer attention. In fact, innovations in packaging can help extend the shelf life of blueberries, preserve their organoleptic properties or even reduce their environmental impact. 

Together with Infia, Macfrut Academy has taken a comprehensive look at the different packaging solutions used for blueberries and how the industry is adapting to new market requirements without compromising the quality of the end product.

The second video lesson is the last in the series on the blueberry supply chain covered by the Macfrut Academy, the innovative digital platform for professionals in the fruit and vegetable sector. An agile and prestigious scientific platform that provides insight into key issues and keeps fruit and vegetable supply chain professionals up to date with the latest industry news. The episodes, hosted by agri-food journalist Maicol Mercuriali, are also available on demand by registering on the platform.  

Info: academy@macfrut.com

Register here to watch the free video lesson: https://academy.macfrut.com/