Ribena's owner is investing £200,000 to develop hardier blackcurrants that can withstand extreme weather, as this year's UK harvest faces a 10% drop due to climate-driven conditions. The investment, made through Suntory Beverage & Food, aims to help blackcurrant bushes tolerate stress from record wet winters, spring frosts, and summer heatwaves.
Why extreme weather threatens blackcurrant harvests
The UK's blackcurrant harvest, primarily in East Anglia, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Kent, and Scotland, is expected to reach only about 9,000 tonnes—well below the average of 10,000 tonnes. Growers report that one of the wettest winters on record delayed pruning and weeding, while localised frosts and hail in spring damaged blossoms. Subsequent heatwaves in June and July caused scorching and premature berry drop, with ongoing drought shrinking fruit sizes.
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Impact on other soft fruits and crops
Soft fruit growers note that while blueberries and grapes benefit from extra heat, strawberries struggle to last into autumn. Leafy vegetables, potatoes, wheat, and barley also face reduced yields. Last year's drought ripened berries two weeks early, and similar stress is expected again.
| Crop | Effect of Extreme Weather |
|---|---|
| Blackcurrants | 10% harvest drop, smaller fruit, premature drop |
| Strawberries | Reduced autumn yield due to heat stress |
| Blueberries & Grapes | Benefit from extra heat |
| Potatoes, Carrots, Brassicas | Struggle with drought and heat |
How Ribena and partners are fighting back
The investment, in collaboration with the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (Niab) and the Blackcurrant Foundation, focuses on breeding climate-resilient blackcurrant varieties. Harriet Prosser, agronomist at Suntory, stated: “Every year, there seems to be another weather record. It has been an exceptionally challenging season for blackcurrant bushes.” Jo Hilditch, chair of the Blackcurrant Foundation and a Herefordshire grower, emphasized the need for long-term solutions.
- Breeding hardier bushes that tolerate wet, frost, and heat extremes
- Improving soil management and irrigation techniques
- Collaborating with growers to adapt planting schedules
- Monitoring climate trends to predict future risks
FAQ
Why is Ribena investing in hardier blackcurrants?
To protect against climate-driven extreme weather that has slashed UK blackcurrant harvests by 10%, ensuring a stable supply for Ribena drinks.
What extreme weather has affected blackcurrant crops?
Record wet winters, spring frosts and hail, followed by intense summer heatwaves and drought, causing smaller fruit and premature dropping.
How will the £200,000 investment be used?
To breed new blackcurrant varieties that can withstand environmental stress, in partnership with Niab and the Blackcurrant Foundation.
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