SANTA MONICA, CA - As consumer demand for organic produce continues to grow, berry suppliers are looking for ways to deliver both quality and consistency throughout the year. In a recent release, Gem-Pack Berries shares an update on its organic berry production, highlights key varieties driving its program, and explores the consumer trends influencing demand for organic and fiber-rich foods ahead of this year's Organic Produce Summit.

With summer underway, production in Gem-Pack Berries’ Central Coast and Baja California growing regions are in full swing. Fresh, organic strawberries and raspberries are now reaching their highest quality and volume of the season, and we’re excited to highlight the strength of our Organic Program at the Organic Produce Summit.

As demand for organic berries continues to grow, we remain focused on expanding our organic berries to provide retailers with a reliable supply of high-quality fruit, while offering consumers fresh, nutritious produce that supports healthy lifestyles.

We currently offer organic strawberries and raspberries and are working to expand our offerings and provide a more consistent supply of organic blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries year-round.

Raspberries and Strawberries

For organic strawberries, our Alturas variety takes center stage in Watsonville at this time of year, representing approximately 70% of our production. Developed by California Berry Cultivars, Alturas is known for its consistent yields and ability to maintain excellent size and quality throughout the season. This variety stands out for its exceptional sugar-acid balance, which has high Brix levels, complemented by a subtle, refreshing tartness that enhances its flavor complexity. Alturas also holds up well during shipping and maintains excellent shelf life, making it ideal for retailers and customers alike.

Available year-round in Baja California, Mexico, the Adelita variety consistently delivers high-quality fruit throughout the season. The fruit develops a bright red color and maintains excellent condition from harvest to retailer’s shelves. Adelita also stands out for its balanced flavor profile, combining sweetness and acidity, resulting in an eating experience that appeals to a wide range of consumers.

Demand and Health Trends

As health and wellness continue to be a priority for shoppers, we know that retailers are focused on providing a steady supply of organic fruits that align with consumers’ health-focused preferences.

Lucky for us, organic berries are a highly sought product in the fresh produce section of the grocery store, for both their delicious taste and nutritional value. Organic berries continue to be one of the strongest-performing items within the organic produce category, showing consistent growth in recent years.

Millennial and Gen Z shoppers are shaping grocery trends by prioritizing organic options, even if they typically cost more than conventional. This is influenced by social media, as consumers are seeking transparency and learning more about sustainable farming practices.

Beyond sustainability concerns, this same wave of social media-driven awareness is shaping how consumers think about nutrition, particularly on gut health and dietary fibers.

We know that consumers seek out all berries, in particular raspberries for their high fiber content. According to Data Essential’s 2026 Trends Preview Report, 54% of consumers are interested in products high in fiber, with that number being 60% for Generation Z consumers.

Together, these trends and social media influence are driving the demand for organic and fiber-rich foods among consumers today.

Excitement for OPS

As consumers continue to show strong demand for organic produce, we are working to expand our organic program to better meet their needs. The Organic Produce Summit provides a valuable opportunity to connect with retail partners and discuss the continued growth of the organic category. We look forward to attending the event and sharing more about our offerings. Visit us at booth #518.