Introducing Haskap Berry: The New Blue Berry That is Winning Hearts

A Haskap, also known as Honeyberry bush with a view of the fruits.

Greetings to all Haskap enthusiasts and those curious about this new super berry! Today, I want to introduce you to Harold Schalin, who has spent over 35 years as a landscaping professional. His passion for plants led him and his wife to embark on a unique journey – establishing Haskap Berry Farms Ltd in 2016.

At Haskap Berry Farms, they have embraced the mission of becoming one of Canada’s largest suppliers of the newest and tastiest Haskap varieties, offering the fruits at fair, competitive prices. Harold’s vision extends globally, aiming to make this vibrant and healthy berry accessible to everyone worldwide in the next 5 to 10 years.

As Haskap Berry Farms’ mission to prioritize sustainable agriculture and produce quality fruit and health-conscious ingredients aligns with my own values, I am excited to be their wholesale representative. With my experience in import and export trading, I am here to help supply this wonderfully delicious fruit to food and beverage manufacturers globally.

Exploring the Unique Haskap Berry

This oblong deep blue to purple berry is grown from the Lonicera caerulea bush, commonly known as the blue honeysuckle. Those unacquainted with the Haskap berry, otherwise known as the Honeyberry or Camerise in French, can imagine a flavour blend reminiscent of blueberries, raspberries, and huckleberries. Bold, vibrant, and very juicy, the Haskap berry boasts minimal pulp or fibre, providing a delightful explosion of flavour when bitten.

Nutritionally, it’s a powerhouse high in vitamin C and antioxidants, with ongoing research at the University of Dalhousie into potential anti-inflammatory properties. The versatility of the Haskap berry is showcased in its various uses – from fresh or frozen snacks to culinary recipes and beverages, and even potential applications in pharmaceutical and health products.

 

Excellence, Quality, and Sustainability: Core Values

What makes Haskap Berry Farms an important player in the business of fruit production is its unwavering commitment to excellence. The team prioritizes delivering top-quality products and memorable customer experiences. Their Aurora variety stands out with its unique shape and tangy-sweet flavour, captivating anyone who takes a first taste.

Sustainability is at the heart of Haskap Berry Farm’s operations, employing landscape fabric, drip irrigation, and wind reduction techniques. “We maximize rainwater uptake, reuse water for irrigation, and continually strive to minimize our environmental footprint,” says Harold.

Production Methods and Market Challenges

A small jar of Haskap Berry Compote

Harold’s commitment to health and sustainability sets Haskap Berry Farms apart. Unlike conventional berry farming, they stand firm against chemical pesticides, utilizing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) methods. Although non-chemical treatments may incur higher costs, Harold prioritizes the well-being of consumers and the environment.

A primary challenge faced in Haskap farming is the fruit’s tender skin that is easily damaged during packaging. Harold deals with this issue by commercializing value-added products and innovative processing methods that reduce damages. Another challenge facing Haskap Berry Farms is its newness to the market, and building awareness is crucial for success. The company looks forward to developing new collaborations within the Food and Beverage industry.

Consumer Delight and Future Prospects

Customers consistently praise the varieties of Honeyberries grown on the farm and the exceptional quality of their fruits. As for the future, Harold anticipates global market expansion with ongoing innovations and a dedication to food safety and quality.

Haskap in Culinary Recipes: Beyond the Berry

In the food and beverage industry, Honeyberries find their place in various products, from juices and sodas to alcoholic drinks and desserts. The Japanese have pioneered unique products like fruit leather and powders, emphasizing the berry’s versatility.

Haskap berries are excellent for pie-making and as a glaze on pork or lamb, enduring various cooking and processing methods. The vibrant colour and intense taste of pure Haskap juice make it an ideal beverage ingredient.

The Next Super Berry: Future Trends and Research Insights

We foresee an explosion in the market as the demand for Haskap berries grows in the food and beverage industry. Challenges in sourcing and maintaining a consistent supply for larger-scale production persist, especially in transportation. A challenge, Harold is ready to conquer. 

Consumer reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the importance of education and testing effective marketing strategies. Looking ahead, Haskap berries are poised to become a globally recognized super berry, aligning with the current trend of health-conscious eating.

Research into incorporating Haskap berries into new products, including potential uses in the colour and dye industry, opens exciting possibilities. With a commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the unique qualities of the Haskap berry, Omega Fruit Co. is excited to contribute to the flourishing market of this extraordinary super berry. 

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With 70% of our immune system residing in our gut, what we put into it, counts! Sea buckthorn juice is known to help achieve balanced nutrient intake, cold and flu resistance and increased energy levels.  It’s inflammation reducing antioxidants help athletes fight body fatigue, and the balanced Omegas fatty acids 3 – 6,  7* & 9, are considered to have a clear role in the prevention and healing of certain Atopic disorders.

 

RECIPE IDEAS

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