Fresh Ontario strawberries arrive this week!
Ontario strawberry season officially begins this Tuesday, May 26th, bringing with it one of the most anticipated moments on the local produce calendar. For grocery retailers, restaurants, and foodservice operators, it’s more than just another seasonal item — it’s the unofficial start of summer and a major opportunity to drive customer excitement. This year’s crop may be arriving slightly later than usual, but expectations are strong for the weeks ahead.
A later start — but a promising season
This year’s Ontario strawberry season is beginning roughly 10 days later than normal due to the unusually cold spring weather across the province. The main difference this year is the delayed start. But with better weather expected moving forward, we’re anticipating a consistent, typical crop. While timing has shifted slightly, buyers can still expect the high-quality local strawberries Ontario growers are known for.
Why Ontario strawberries stand out
For produce buyers and chefs, the appeal of Ontario strawberries comes down to one thing: flavour. Unlike imported strawberries, which are often picked early to withstand long transportation times, Ontario strawberries are harvested ripe and ready to eat. That difference has a major impact on sweetness and overall eating quality.
Local strawberries are generally sweeter because they’re picked ripe. Imported berries are often picked early to extend shelf life during travel. Ontario strawberries also tend to have a softer, more tender texture — something consumers often associate with truly fresh fruit. Imported berries may last longer on the shelf, but that’s frequently due to earlier harvesting and heavier preservative use.
What buyers should look for
When sourcing strawberries this season, there are two major indicators of quality:
- Full, vibrant colour
- Firmness
These signs help buyers identify berries that are fresh, ripe, and ready for retail display or foodservice use.
A seasonal sales opportunity
Ontario strawberry season consistently generates excitement among consumers, making it an important promotional window for retailers and restaurants alike. People get excited when local strawberries start. It’s one of the signs that summer and local produce season has officially arrived.
Promote local, keep it central, and make it a main focus.
For retailers, strong merchandising can make a major difference. We recommend keeping local strawberries front and centre during peak season and making Ontario sourcing highly visible in signage and promotions.
From farm to table in 24–36 hours
Freshness matters — especially with strawberries. We work closely with Ontario growers to move product quickly, with strawberries typically reaching customers within 24–36 hours of harvest. That speed helps preserve flavour, appearance, and overall quality during one of the busiest seasonal windows of the year.
Local strawberry season lasts longer than many buyers realize
While peak strawberry season traditionally lasts only three to four weeks depending on weather conditions, advancements in farming and newer strawberry varieties have significantly extended local availability. Thanks to everbearing and day-neutral varieties, Ontario strawberries are now available throughout most of the summer and often right up until close to Thanksgiving. For buyers, that means more opportunities to feature local strawberries well beyond the traditional early-summer rush.
Planning for the season ahead
As Ontario strawberry season gets underway, demand is expected to move quickly across retail and foodservice markets. Working with an experienced supplier can help buyers maintain consistent access during peak weeks.
With strong grower relationships and the ability to respond to changing demand, DiLiso’s Fresh 2U is ready to help customers make the most of another Ontario strawberry season.