Increased demand for goldenberrries as foodservice re-opens
With restaurants in various states of reopening across the U.S., there may be new opportunities for imported goldenberries.
Left: Packing facility working with goldenberries; right: the packaging for goldenberries have minimal labelling so people can see the berries.
Also known as gooseberries, the citrus-like slightly tart berry grows largely in Colombia and Ecuador year-round. Homestead, FL-based A.R. Produce had begun importing them in 2020 however when foodservice, particularly high-end foodservice where these berries are often found in sauces, salads and more, shut down in the pandemic, A.R. Produce moved into offering them at retailers. “We started with a pallet and now we’re up 600 percent in supplies it’s increased since last year,” says A.R. Produce’s Frank Martinez, who adds that the berry is sold with or without a husk in 4.4 oz. clamshells. “We carry mostly “naked” berries without the husk an