BerryWorld has introduced BerryWorld Orb, the UK’s first home-bred blueberry variety, developed at their breeding site in Faversham, Kent. Initially selected by Peter Vinson in 2012 and further developed by Graham Clarkson in 2015, this northern highbush variety stands out for its large size, excellent flavour, firm texture, and long shelf life, receiving positive feedback from retailers.
With upright plants and well-presented fruit, Orb is not only appealing to consumers but also easy to harvest, benefiting growers.
International trials and recognition
The variety’s potential has led to trial extensions in multiple countries, including Chile, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, South Africa, France, Italy, and Romania.
BerryWorld Orb has already made its market debut in the UK, though still in limited quantities, and has won the “Tastiest Blueberry” award at the National Cherry & Soft Fruit Show, reinforcing its promise as a premium product.
Strategic importance and sustainability
Samuel Rowe, CEO of BerryWorld Varieties, highlighted the importance of local breeding for both sustainability and retail appeal.
With UK blueberry consumption increasing from 12,000 to nearly 65,000 tonnes annually over the past 15 years, Orb represents a significant milestone.
Rowe emphasized the value of offering British shoppers and growers a locally developed variety, supporting seasonal and local sourcing trends.
Fonte testo e immagine: fruitnet.com
