Optiberry - From berries to biorefining

Wilderhof. is a company producing strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries, in Belgium.

But it is not only that. The company steps beyond its own supply chain and enters the circular economy.
How?

Optiberry

More than 15% of these berries do not enter the fresh market because of quality reasons. Part of these non-premium fruit finds a destination in the industry but are sold at dumping prices.

OPTIBERRY targets innovative processing and biorefinery/extraction concepts to food prototypes and (non)-food ingredients for sustainable use of berry biomass available, especially the non-premium fruit. The project will result in high added value (none)-food applications to process or market the non-premium class fruit of raspberry, strawberry, and blackberry (Figure 1). This valorisation will result in a more resilient berry supply chain, creating a secure and long-lasting sustainable relationship between the berry grower and its potential customers.

Visit Wilderhof website for further information.

Learn more about the project partners here.