Large supermarkets and department stores are also struggling to secure varieties resistant to climate change.
As the fruit growth map of the Korean Peninsula changes due to climate change, distribution industries such as large supermarkets and department stores are risking their lives to sell domestically produced tropical fruits or to secure fruit varieties that survive well in variable weather. As fruit varieties grown on the Korean Peninsula in the past are no longer producing fruit properly due to the warming that has been going on for several years, the types of fruit sold by the distribution industry are also changing.
●North Korean tropical fruit cultivation area
According to the distribution industry on the 3rd, domestically produced tropical fruits sold by large supermarkets are receiving favorable response from consumers despite being more expensive than imported fruits. The secret to its popularity is that it is fresher than foreign tropical fruits and is grown organically.
According to E-Mart on the 3rd, organic bananas grown in Gochang, Jeollabuk-do were introduced little by little at each store this year, and about 27,000 packs were sold. Gochang organic bananas cost about 6,000 won per pack (3 to 4). Compared to E-Mart selling a bunch (1 kg) of bananas from Ecuador at a discount of about 2,000 won, the price is about three times higher.
An E-Mart official said, “Bananas grow in a subtropical climate, so it was difficult to produce them domestically in the past, but we have recently been able to receive a stable supply of the same quality as imported products from Gochang, Jeollabuk-do, so we have been able to sell them.” E-Mart also sold apple mangoes from Jeju, including them in a fruit gift set.
As average temperatures rise every year due to climate change, the cultivation of subtropical crops is expanding in Korea. This is because crops that were mainly grown in the Jeju region, where temperatures are relatively high, can now be grown inland. According to the Rural Development Administration, as of last year, the number of domestic farms growing subtropical fruit trees was 4,741, showing a steady increase. Most farmers grow kiwi, but they also grow figs, pomegranates, and mangoes.
●New varieties included in gift set… Buyers go to the lab
Hyundai Department Store introduced ‘Easy Apple’, a new apple variety, in the last Chuseok gift set. Easyful has recently been attracting attention as a variety that responds to climate change due to its red coloring ability even at high temperatures. A Hyundai Department Store official explained, “In addition to Easy Apple apples, buyers collaborated with research institutes to secure a large number of new varieties.” Representative new fruit varieties include apples (Sweet Melody) and pears (Greensis, Shinhwa, Changjo, and Seolwon) developed by the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science, and grapes (Gold Sweet and Ruby Sweet) developed by the Research and Development Bureau of the Gyeongsangbuk-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services.
Fruit and vegetable buyers in the distribution industry, who had been mainly traveling between domestic and overseas production centers and agricultural wholesale markets, are now knocking on the doors of fruit research institutes across the country, including the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science under the Rural Development Administration. This is due to increasing uncertainty over the supply and demand of agricultural and marine products as unpredictable weather phenomena occur repeatedly in a rapidly changing climate. Hyundai Department Store adjusted its fruit and vegetable buyers, who were previously in charge of both fruits and grains, to focus only on fruits.
An official in the distribution industry said, “It has emerged as an important task to quickly acquire new varieties that are easy to grow even in adverse weather conditions.” He added, “Especially in department stores where competition for premium food is fierce, the ability to respond to climate change will be a core competency that can secure market advantage. “It will be,” he predicted.
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Interview: The Future of Fruit in the Era of Climate Change
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Kim, and thank you for joining us today. As an expert in agricultural sciences, your insights will shed light on a critical issue: how climate change is reshaping our food systems, particularly in fruit production. Recently, large supermarkets and department stores in South Korea have been scrambling to secure fruit varieties that can withstand these challenges. Can you provide some context on what’s happening in this sector?
Dr. Kim: Thank you for having me! Yes, the changes in fruit production due to climate change are significant. Historically, many fruits were primarily cultivated in specific regions like Jeju Island, known for its subtropical climate. However, as average temperatures rise, we see a shift where subtropical crops can now be grown inland areas of the Korean Peninsula, which was not possible before. This shift poses both challenges and opportunities for the distribution industry.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like this has led to a remarkable transformation in what consumers see on store shelves. Could you elaborate on how consumer preferences are changing as a result?
Dr. Kim: Absolutely. There’s a growing appreciation for domestically produced tropical fruits, and consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for them, especially when they know these fruits are fresher and grown organically. For instance, E-Mart recently introduced organic bananas from Gochang, which are priced significantly higher than their Ecuadorian counterparts; yet they are flying off the shelves. This trend indicates that consumers value quality and sustainability over cost alone.
Time.news Editor: That’s interesting! With the introduction of new fruit varieties like the ‘Easy Apple,’ how are buyers in the distribution industry adapting to these changes?
Dr. Kim: Buyers are becoming much more proactive. In the past, they mainly sourced fruits from production centers and wholesale markets. Now, they are collaborating closely with research institutions to discover and secure new varieties that can thrive under unpredictable weather conditions. For example, new apple and pear varieties developed by agricultural research institutes are now making their way into upscale fruit gift sets. This strategic shift aims to enhance the market’s resilience against climate variability.
Time.news Editor: As the competition heats up, what do you think will be the core competencies that determine success for supermarkets and department stores?
Dr. Kim: The ability to adapt to climate change will be paramount. As highlighted by industry experts, quickly acquiring and promoting new fruit varieties that can endure adverse conditions will give retailers a competitive edge. Furthermore, it’s not just about securing a wider variety of products; it’s about educating consumers on the benefits of these new crops and fostering a connection between them and sustainable agricultural practices.
Time.news Editor: Do you foresee any potential risks associated with this transition?
Dr. Kim: There are always risks associated with rapid adaptation. The focus on a narrow range of new varieties could lead to a lack of biodiversity in fruit production, which in turn could threaten crop resilience against pests and diseases. Furthermore, logistical challenges in distributing these new products can arise, especially if farmers are not equipped or trained to handle these varieties.
Time.news Editor: That’s a valid point. As you look to the future, what advice would you give to both consumers and producers navigating this changing landscape?
Dr. Kim: For consumers, I would encourage an openness to explore new fruits and flavors. Embracing these changes can lead to exciting culinary experiences. For producers, investing in research and development is crucial. They should collaborate with agricultural experts to ensure they not only adapt but also thrive in this new climate reality. Sustainable practices and innovation must go hand in hand as we move forward.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Kim, for your valuable insights. It’s clear that while challenges lie ahead, there are also immense opportunities for innovation and growth in our food systems.
Dr. Kim: Thank you! It’s a crucial conversation to have, and I’m glad to be part of it.