First of all, Brazilians love fruit and all sorts of exotic local and imports. Second, Brazilians are extremely health conscious and have a "food as medicine" philosophy. USHBC initial efforts have been to support the fresh market. Local production is centered in the south part of the country and the season is the exact opposite of the USA. What really got me interested in Brazil was seeing the Brazilians visiting Miami and Orlando on holiday stocking up on fresh blueberries for the return home! Brazil imports fresh blueberries from neighboring South American countries such as Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. Currently fresh blueberries from the USA are air freighted to Sao Paulo, Brazil during the North American Summer. Most are sold at very high-end grocery stores. Our first efforts in Brazil have been exhibitions such as the SIAL Brazil show. Year one: we instructed visitors on "what is a blueberry." Year two: we met enthusiastic blueberry converts. Year three: our booth was mobbed by visitors in search of blueberries.
This year,Brazil will continue imports of fresh blueberries. Now, food processors are also looking for frozen and further processed blueberries. The future looks bright. Obrigado!
Below: blueberry promotion at grocery store in Sao Paulo, Brazil.
No comments:
Post a Comment