Improvement of berry production, quality and nutritional value in Europe
The EU-funded EUBERRY (The sustainable improvement of European berry production, quality and nutritional value in a changing environment: Strawberries, currants, blackberries, blueberries and raspberries) project set out to bring more fresh berries to the market. By using strawberry, raspberry and blueberry as model crop species, the EUBERRY platform was tested, developed and validated. Researchers looked to improve the berry fruit sensorial and nutritional quality and to reduce production costs. Currants and blackberries were also part of the study. Researchers developed new genetic materials and cultivation systems to optimise berry quality, extend out-of-season production, ensure profitable berry production in a changing climate and reduce the environmental impact. They also developed several tools to analyse and select fruits with nutritional quality. Pre- and post-harvest treatments were tested to enhance the shelf life of strawberries, raspberries and blueberries as well as to maximise the quality, nutraceutical and nutritional value of fresh fruit. Fresh berries were validated for their effects on health. The team used data on productivity and quality of the new genotypes to study the economic viability of the new cultivation systems. They then assessed the genotypes and systems to optimise the economic competitiveness of berries and devise a marketing strategy to promote their health benefits and boost consumption. By improving berry fruit quality and reducing production costs, EUBERRY intends to make the EU a leader in berry production.
Keywords
Berry production, nutritional value, berries, cultivation systems, berry fruit
