![]() Strawberries from Andalucía: A Sweet Treasure |
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Strawberries from Andalucia
Andalucía, in southern Spain, is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and agricultural abundance. Strawberries not only delight the palate but also offer significant nutritional benefits, perfect when served with local honey.
Nutritional Information
Strawberries are a nutritional powerhouse, making them an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals. They are low in calories—just 32 calories per 100 grams—and contain no fat or cholesterol. Rich in vitamin C, a single cup of strawberries provides over 100% of the recommended daily intake, supporting a strong immune system and healthy skin. These berries are also packed with antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and ellagic acid, which help combat free radicals and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, strawberries are an excellent source of dietary fibre, promoting good digestion, and provide essential minerals like potassium and manganese, which support heart health and bone strength. Their natural sweetness comes with a low glycaemic index, making them suitable for people with diabetes. Furthermore, their high water content—approximately 91%—helps to keep you hydrated, offering a refreshing and nutritious treat in every bite.
Where They Are Grown in Andalucia?
The majority of strawberries in Andalucía are grown in the province of Huelva, located along the Atlantic coast. This area benefits from a mild Mediterranean climate and sandy soils, which are ideal for strawberry cultivation. The long hours of sunshine and mild winters allow for an extended growing season, enabling farmers to produce strawberries from late winter through early summer.
Huelva is particularly known for its modern agricultural techniques, such as drip irrigation systems that conserve water while ensuring plants receive the nutrients they need. The proximity of the Doñana National Park, a hub of biodiversity, contributes to the region’s ecological balance, indirectly supporting strawberry farming.
Strawberry Farming
Despite its agricultural success, Huelva faces significant challenges with water resources. The intensive cultivation of strawberries, demands a substantial amount of water, placing stress on water supplies.
Although Huelva leads in production, smaller-scale strawberry farms can also be found in other parts of Andalucía, such as Seville and Málaga. However, these regions do not match Huelva’s scale of output. Most of Andalucía’s strawberries are exported to other European countries, where they are highly valued for their exceptional quality, flavour, and vibrant appearance.