Japanese marketing representatives are touring cranberry marshes and facilities this week in Wisconsin. Izumi Amano of Motix Limited says the Japanese palette is partial to sweet tastes. The country imports many similar fruits like plums, raspberries and strawberries.
The US has been exporting cranberries heavily to the Asian nation for 10 years now. Dave Farrimond, Executive Director of the US Cranberry Marketing Committee, says there are 200 cranberry products in Japan many of which are not available in the states.
Farrimond says the group is helping promote the positive benefits of the fruit by focusing on the health benefits, versatility and taste of the berry. Research shows that cranberries provide disease fighting antioxidants and phytonutrients.
Wisconsin exports about 30% of its cranberry crop to Asia, the United Kingdom and Western Europe.
AUDIO: Brian Moon reports (MP3 :76)
