Global demand for dried cranberries and products containing them has led Ocean Spray ITG in the US to increase its production capacity by adding 100,000 square feet to its sweetened dried cranberry production plant in Wisconsin Rapids.
This is the second phase of expansion, following 100,000 extension of the facility which began in June.
Once operational, the plant will be able to produce 30 million pounds of dried cranberries a year.
Sales of dried cranberries have experienced double digit growth over recent years.
Research suggested the sweetened dried cranberries might offer similar anti-oxidant properties to cranberry juice, giving the fruit a wider range of applications.
Manufacturers of baked goods, cereals, trail mix and other products have been able to capitilise on the health credentials of dried cranberries.
Ocean Spray ITG is part of Ocean Spray and offers an extensive portfolio of fruit ingredients including sweetened dried cranberries, BerryFusions Fruits, cranberry powders, frozen cranberries and cranberry concentrate and purée.
Further information on using cranberries in food products can be obtained from Fruitmark in Australia and James Crisp Ltd in New Zealand.
www.oceansprayitg.com