Strawberry

AI Gourmet Analysis

Strawberries of Baguio, Philippines

Strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa) are one of the most widely loved fruits around the world, characterized by their rich aroma and sweet-tart flavor. While strawberries are extensively cultivated within Japan, they are also imported from various countries. Baguio, a highland city in the northern part of Luzon Island, Philippines, which the author visited, is known as a major production area for strawberries in the country. At the "Baguio City Market," located at the heart of Baguio City, fresh strawberries line the local stalls and attract great popularity among both locals and tourists.

Strawberry Cultivation in the Philippines

The history of strawberry cultivation in the Philippines is relatively recent, having spread in earnest since the mid-20th century. Cool highland regions such as Benguet province in northern Luzon have become prominent cultivation areas, with the Baguio vicinity as their center. Although strawberries thrive in temperate climates, Baguio, being a highland area at about 1,500 meters above sea level with an average annual temperature close to 20°C, allows for successful strawberry farming even in the tropical Philippines. Baguio-grown strawberries are highly regarded for their beautiful appearance, firm flesh, and well-balanced sweetness and acidity.

Baguio City Market and Strawberry Distribution

Baguio City Market is a key shopping spot for citizens and tourists alike. During the season, freshly picked strawberries are offered in heaps, delivered directly from farmers. Within the market, large, bright red strawberries can be observed, and locals can sample them on the spot, while travelers can easily purchase them. Distribution is primarily domestic, but due to their high quality, Baguio strawberries are shipped across the Philippines, and there are even some cases of export to Asian countries such as Thailand and Japan.

Relationship with Japan and the Current Status of Strawberry Imports

Japan is one of the world's leading strawberry producers, yet continues to import strawberries. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, about 80% of strawberries imported in 2020 came from the United States, which far outnumbers other countries in both quantity and value. However, even with a small import volume of just 400 kg, a country can rank high among Japan’s strawberry import sources, indicating how much the Japanese market relies on domestic production. While Filipino strawberries are still relatively rare in Japan’s markets, Baguio strawberries are notable for their firm sweetness and moderate tartness, offering a high quality that matches the Japanese palate.

Nutritional Value and Cultural Background

Strawberries are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, folic acid, and dietary fiber, and have long been regarded as a natural food expected to boost immunity and promote beautiful skin. In the Philippines, strawberries are enjoyed not only as they are, but also in various processed forms such as jams, sweets, shakes, and fruit wines. During the annual "Panagbenga (Flower Festival)" in Baguio, strawberries appear in various events as a local specialty and are established as one of the region’s representative agricultural products.

Conclusion

Strawberries from Baguio are characterized by the unique flavors nurtured by the Philippines' climate conditions and the cool air specific to highland areas. Beautiful and vibrant, with an excellent balance of sweetness and tartness, they are of a quality familiar to Japanese tastes as well. Although the import volume to Japan remains limited, there is potential for their popularity to grow further. Fresh strawberries enjoyed at local markets embody the diversity of Filipino food culture and the unique agricultural development of the region.