Sweet British strawberry sees off rivals from abroad

THEY have long been recognised as being among the best in the world and a symbol of the British summer.

But it seems strawberries could become even tastier after plant experts developed a new variety.

After eight years of research in Kent, the Malling Centenary – which retains its taste and shape despite packing and picking – has this summer become widely available in shops across the country.

The Dutch Elsanta, one of the most common varieties, has been praised by growers due to its high yields.

But because it is made to have a long shelf life, many have described it as ‘tasteless’.

The Sonata, another common Dutch variety, is popular because of its ability to flourish in hot weather or heavy rain.

Laurence Olins, chairman of British Summer Fruits, the body which represents UK berry growers, told The Observer: ‘I think within a year or two you won’t see Elsanta or Sonata any more.’

He added that the Elsanta was not as sweet or as big as the Malling Centenary.

Sainsbury’s also said that, although the Elsanta was the ‘backbone’ of the industry, it was seeing a shift towards the Malling Centenary.

Created by East Malling Research, an agricultural research institution in Kent, it was originally released to a limited number of suppliers in 2013.

But after proving hugely popular, it was released to major supermarkets – and many now prefer the Malling Centenary.

It also won ‘best new variety (fruit)’ at this year’s Grower Awards in February.

Over the past ten years, UK strawberry sales have leaped from £300 million a year to more than £1.2 billion.