Some companies buying strawberries for freezing are paying close to 6 złoty*/kg, and the season started with an average rate of more than 4 złoty/kg, as reported by Agrobiznes on TVP.
Last year, prices were definitely lower, with the average rate at 3.65 złoty/kg. This year, it will amount to more than 5 złoty/kg. This is mostly the result of supply problems. According to experts, the strawberry harvest has been about 15 percent lower, and some actually say that the decline has reached up to 30 percent.
While some growers report big losses, those who invested in planting under cover and adequate protection are benefitting from this situation. For them, it is one of the best seasons in years.
There will also be fewer raspberries. The purchasing is just starting. In the Lublin region, producers usually get 4.2 złoty/kg. Class I is valued at a maximum of 3.8 złoty/kg and Class II stands about 20 cents lower. Last year, the rates exceeded 6 złoty/kg, but proper sales will only start later, when the autumn raspberry varieties hit the market.
As for currants, prices are on the rise, especially for the red, which cost about 1 złoty more than a year ago. Companies are paying about 3 złoty per kilogram. Blackcurrants are also more expensive and experts believe rates may still go up.
*1 złoty = 0.23 Euro/0.27 US$
