Fresh Trends 2023: Blueberries still have a big presence

With imports now accounting for nearly 60% of total blueberry supplies, blueberry consumption has seen big gains in recent years.
With imports now accounting for nearly 60% of total blueberry supplies, blueberry consumption has seen big gains in recent years.
(Photo: Comfreak, Pixabay)

Editor's Note: The following report is from The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2023, which provides insight based on survey responses from consumers. Since 1983, The Packer has sponsored 40 major consumer studies to track trends in the purchases and consumption of fresh produce, documenting the fluctuation in purchases of specific fruits and vegetables as well as changing attitudes toward industry issues.


With imports now accounting for nearly 60% of total blueberry supplies, blueberry consumption has seen big gains in recent years.

The USDA reports that retail per capita availability of blueberries increased from 1.2 pounds in 2011 to 2.1 pounds in 2019.

The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2023 survey revealed that 37% of consumers reported blueberry purchases in the past year, compared with 41% in Fresh Trends 2022 and 43% in Fresh Trends 2021.

USDA statistics show that the average blueberry fob price in 2022 was $19.84 per carton, down 5% from $20.82 per carton in 2021.

The USDA reported the average retail advertised price for blueberries was $3.83 per unit in 2022, up 6% from $3.60 per unit in 2021. The number of stores that promoted blueberries in 2022 totaled 964,054, down 9% from 1.1 million in 2021.

Higher income levels are associated with greater blueberry purchases, according to Fresh Trends 2023, as 47% of consumers making more than $100,000 a year reported blueberry purchases, compared with just 26% making under $25,000 annually.

Older consumers were the most frequent purchasers of blueberries, according to Fresh Trends 2023, with 44% of shoppers aged 60 and older reporting fresh blueberry purchases, compared with 41% of those from ages 50-59, 33% of those from ages 40-49, 34% of those from ages 30-39 and 29% of those from ages 18-29.

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.