Although the pomegranate supply is lower at this time of year, there is still more than enough, says Emma Docquincourt, deputy general manager for Indian fresh produce exporter DeHaat: "Although in India the pomegranate is a year-round crop, the volumes harvested may fluctuate during certain periods of time. For example, during the summer and monsoon season, which is from May to August, the availability may be lower than usual. This consequently leads to a variability in sourcing price. However, our customers expect a consistent level of supply when it comes to order fulfilment, quality and price and we have been successfully doing that."
To further develop DeHaat sourcing strength and sustainable farming practices, it has been supplying their farmers with an organic growth promoter, Docquincourt explains. "We have successfully overcome any pomegranate supply challenges, thanks to our strong network of 2.7 million farmers and our 'seed to market' product value chain integration. Putting 'Farmers First', we support them in adopting more sustainable agricultural practices aimed at better yields and safer products for the consumers. In the case of pomegranates, we supply our farmers with CBL, an organic certified plant growth promoter, that fortifies root development, elevates plants' photosynthesis and amplifies yields. The higher efficiency and solid results of CBL have led to its rapid adoption by our pomegranate farmers; availing premium quality fruits in ample volumes." 
According to Docquincourt, the Indian pomegranates remain to have an advantage over any competition, thanks to a specific variety: "There is undoubtedly an increasing demand for pomegranate arils across the export market, with India remaining a favoured origin. On one hand, India grows exclusively the pomegranate variety 'Bhagwa', which is known to provide a superior eating experience as well as colour quality, compared to other origins. On the other hand, the arils are extracted, sorted, graded and packed manually by a skilled manpower, which is the only way to guarantee the best quality, freshness and longest shelf-life on arrival."
These days, it's not just European markets that want the pomegranate arils from India. Docquincourt states that thanks to their prolonged shelf-life, DeHaat can export them to the United States and Canada as well. "While Europe remains one of the main markets for arils, we see tremendous potential globally. Indeed, the longer shelf-life compared to market's standards that we achieve make them suitable to travel as far the USA or Canada. In addition, our arils are Global GAP, BRC & SMETA certified and we apply stringent processes in adequation with international food safety and quality standards. Because of the situation in the Red Sea, the air freight rates from India and the demand for cargo space remain on the higher side. Although these may represent a challenge, we have strong partnerships with airlines; giving us access to more cargo space and flexibility."
"DeHaat and our premium brand 'Freshtrop' have been supplying arils across Europe for more than ten years to a diverse range of customers and have developed a portfolio fitting their respective requirements. While a food processor will tend to opt for a bulk format, a retailer is likely to prefer a shelf-ready pack, such as 100g and 125g, which can also be labelled at the source, in our high-care facilities. In controlling our entire supply chain, we can provide our customers complete traceability and confidence in our systems."
It's almost time to travel to Madrid, and DeHaat will also be present during the exhibition: "Our team will be visiting Fruit Attraction in Madrid and will be available for the three days of the fair. Such event is a great platform to meet existing customers prior to the Indian grape and ginger season, but also to connect with new players in the fresh produce industry. We offer a complete range of produce, such as banana, pomegranate, baby corn, chilli, mango and more, for a wide array of applications, such as fresh, fresh-cut, frozen and more. So let's meet up in Madrid!" Docquincourt concludes.
For more information:
Ms. Emma Docquincourt
DeHaat
Tel: +91 70450 05229
[email protected]
www.agrevolution.in