Experts have warned that European berry harvests have been poor this year, raising the possibility of shortages of certain fruit extracts.
Demand for many berries, such as elderberries, blackcurrants and blueberries, has increased in recent months, with consumers increasingly seeking out healthy foods.
According to market analyst AC Nielsen, UK sales of blueberries have increased by £55 million over a two-year period, but nutraceutical firm Berry Pharma warned that availability of the berries could be low in the immediate future.
The company, which provides berry extracts, told Nutraingredients.com that spring freezes, floods, severe heat and high humidity levels have all contributed to poor harvests, with lower amounts of blueberries being collected this year when compared to the previous year.
Blueberries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants, which help to slow the ageing process and are thought to reduce the risk of cancer.
A study published earlier this year also suggested that blueberries may reduce the severity of Alzheimer's disease.
Experts have warned that European berry harvests have been poor this year, raising the possibility of shortages of certain fruit extracts.
