The warmest April in 100 years has delivered the biggest and best crop of strawberries at the start of the British strawberry season, growers announced today.
More than 50 per cent of strawberries sold in supermarkets this week are expected to be British increasing to 100 per cent by next week.
This week last year, our growers sent 400 tonnes of British strawberries to supermarkets. This week, we expect them to send four times that amount which will be the largest amount ever for this time of year. And the warm weather, no frosts and good pollination means the fruit is firmer, sweeter and juicer” said Mr Laurence Olins, Chairman of British Summer Fruits.
Met Office figures show April temperatures were 3 to 5 degrees warmer than normal and, on average, there was half the usual rainfall.
Consumers have a great affection for naturally sweet British strawberries and Elsanta is the most well known variety due to its sweet taste and glossy skin. Sonata, Jubilee, Sweet Eve and Ava are other favoured berries often found in British supermarkets.
Strawberries should be served at room temperature to best enjoy their full flavour and powerful aroma. One of the most versatile fruits, strawberries can be enjoyed straight from the punnet and seven berries provides an adult with 100% of their Recommended Daily Allowance of Vitamin C.
Home grown strawberries will be in plentiful supply with the season likely to peak in July and last until September.
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For more information, images and recipes contact Katherine Cornish or Bianca Capstick at Sputnik Communications Tel: 020 7439 2780. Email: Katherine.cornish@sputnikcomms.co.uk or Bianca@sputnikcomms.co.uk Follow the season on twitter @britishberries
NOTES TO EDITORS
* April Weather Statistics
The Met Office reported that April 2011 was the UK’s warmest on record. The records, that date back more than 100 years, showed UK temperatures were 3 to 5C degrees warmer than is normal for April. The UK average temperature was 10.7 °C exceeding the previous warmest April on record of 10.2 °C in 2007. April 2011 was the 11th driest month with, on average, half the usual rainfall. The UK average rainfall total was 36.7mm – 52% of the long-term average.
Health
- Just 7 strawberries (80g) provides your recommended daily amount of vitamin C
- In addition to vitamin C, strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese, as well as folic acid, potassium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, vitamin B6, copper, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids
- Strawberries contain significant levels of phytonutrients and antioxidants which help fight free radicals
