Aldi shoppers across the UK will notice a change down one aisle this summer as the supermarket stocks 100% British-grown raspberries. Suppliers say the fruit will be sweeter and bigger than usual, thanks to a cooler spring that slowed ripening and improved flavour development.
What to Expect
From Thursday, June 11, Aldi has confirmed that customers can anticipate a modification to one product on its shelves. The budget retailer states that shoppers can expect 'sweeter' and 'bigger' raspberries this summer, following preparations to stock 100% British-grown fruit with the arrival of the British raspberry season.
According to Aldi's berry suppliers, this year's harvest is expected to be both sweeter and larger than usual. The cooler spring has resulted in slower ripening and enhanced flavour development.
Sales Forecast
With demand for British berries continuing to surge, Aldi is forecasting raspberry sales will increase by 15% year on year. Last year, the supermarket sold 1,900 tonnes of raspberries between June and September, equating to nearly 12 million punnets.
British-grown raspberries are now available in Aldi stores across the UK, marking the supermarket's shift to 100% British-grown fresh raspberries. Aldi states it works closely with British growers to deliver high-quality produce at unbeatable value.
Commitment to British Growers
Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: 'We expect our raspberries to taste better than ever this season, showcasing the fantastic quality of British produce available across Aldi stores. We're proud to work with British farmers and growers across the country while helping customers enjoy more great British produce.'
As part of its ongoing commitment to British growers, Aldi has partnered with farmer and television personality Harriet Cowan. She will champion British-grown fruit and vegetables and encourage shoppers to buy more produce grown in the UK.
Shopper Awareness
Fresh research commissioned by Aldi discovered that while 80% of shoppers say supporting British farmers matters to them, only 27% actively check whether fruit and vegetables are grown in Britain when making purchasing decisions.
The findings also showed that many shoppers are unaware that certain vegetables, such as cucumbers, courgettes, and aubergines, can all be cultivated in the UK.
Harriet Cowan said: 'I'm passionate about highlighting the brilliant work British farmers do to bring high-quality food to our tables. I've loved teaming up with Aldi to learn more about the fruit and veg we grow here in the UK and to shine a light on what's in season.'
Are Raspberries Good for You?
Raspberries are an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Packed full of essential nutrients, low in calories, and bursting with dietary fibre, vitamin C, and powerful antioxidants, they truly are a superfood. Their high fibre content and low glycemic index also make them particularly effective at regulating blood sugar levels.
What Do Raspberries Go Well With?
Their delightfully sweet and tangy flavour makes them a versatile ingredient that complements a wide range of tastes. They work beautifully alongside rich and indulgent options such as dark or white chocolate, vanilla, cream, custard, and yoghurt.
Raspberries also go wonderfully with nuts and grains, including almonds, oats, hazelnuts, and walnuts. They can be enjoyed alongside citrus fruits and other produce, such as lemon, peach, nectarine, and other berries. What's more, they lend themselves surprisingly well to savoury dishes and herbs, pairing nicely with basil, thyme, rosemary, and mild cheeses such as brie or goat's cheese.
