Strawberries Dominate Consumer Choices: Trends 2023

Starwberries

Amidst the diverse range of fruits obtainable in the global market, strawberries have garnered significant appreciation from customers due to their distinct flavor and advantageous properties. The more informed and demanding consumers of today want plant-based produce that is of superior quality, varied in terms of nutrients, and safer. This has made it necessary for producers and researchers to keep an eye on the marketing, distribution, and production of food. 

Fresh Strawberries Trends 2023

Fresh trends in the world of strawberries continue to captivate both consumers and the agricultural industry. These trends are driven by a growing interest in healthier, more sustainable, and unique food options. Here are some noteworthy developments:

1. Sustainable Practices: Consumers are increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their food choices. As a result, sustainable strawberry farming practices, such as reduced pesticide use, organic cultivation, and eco-friendly packaging, have gained traction.
2. Novel Varieties: The demand for novel and unique strawberry varieties is on the rise. From white strawberry with a delicate, pineapple-like flavor to bubblegum-flavored strawberry, consumers are seeking new taste experiences.
3. Vertical Farming: Vertical farming and indoor agriculture have expanded strawberry cultivation possibilities. These methods allow for year-round production, reduced water usage, and the ability to grow strawberries in urban areas.
4. Health Benefits: Strawberries are recognized for their health benefits, thanks to their high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C. There is a growing interest in functional strawberry, with researchers exploring ways to enhance their nutritional content.
5. Value-Added Products: Beyond fresh strawberry, value-added products like strawberry jams, preserves, and freeze-dried snacks have gained popularity. These products offer consumers diverse ways to enjoy the fruit.

In conclusion, the strawberry industry is evolving to meet the changing preferences and priorities of consumers, embracing sustainability, flavor innovation, and health-conscious trends while expanding cultivation methods to ensure year-round availability.

The Packer’s Fresh Trends 2023 showed that 52% of all consumers said they purchased fresh strawberries in the past year, down from 56% in Fresh Trends 2022 and down from 58% in Fresh Trends 2021. 

https://www.thepacker.com/news/retail/fresh-trends-2023-more-half-consumers-bought-strawberries-last-year

Consumer Choice

Consumer choice in the world of strawberries is evolving in response to various factors, reflecting shifting preferences and priorities. Increasingly health-conscious consumers are leaning towards strawberries due to their reputation as a superfood, opting for fresh strawberries over other less nutritious snacks as they strive for a healthier diet. Eco-conscious consumers actively seek out brands that emphasize sustainable farming practices in strawberry cultivation, with a focus on reduced pesticide usage, organic methods, and eco-friendly packaging, aligning their food choices with their environmental values. Those with adventurous palates are exploring novel strawberry varieties that offer unique flavors and experiences, such as strawberries with pineapple or bubblegum notes, satisfying their culinary curiosity. Additionally, the convenience and variety offered by value-added strawberry products like jams and freeze-dried snacks are gaining favor among consumers, providing different and convenient ways to enjoy the fruit. In essence, the diverse landscape of consumer choice in strawberries reflects a dynamic blend of health, sustainability, adventurous tastes, and convenience, encouraging ongoing innovation and evolution within the strawberry industry.

Figures on the Strawberries trend 2023

In 2022, strawberry prices remained consistent.
Strawberry had an average selling price of $16.71 per carton in 2022, which was 3% less than the $17.18 per carton in 2021.
In 2022, strawberry was retailed for $2.11 per unit, which was a 5% increase from $2.01 per unit in 2021.
In 2022, there were 833,592 stores that featured strawberry, a 4% decrease from 867,040 in 2021.
According to Fresh Trends 2023, older consumers were the ones who bought fresh strawberry most frequently. Compared to 44% of consumers aged 18-29, 58% of consumers aged 60 and beyond reported purchasing strawberries.