Trials under way to extend Rocha season Portuguese Rocha pears, now a major winter line for multiples despite their fragility, could be available on the shelves for longer. At present they are sold both loose and in prepacks at retail prices ranging from £1.20-£1.40/kg. With the crop back in full production after a light season with 25% more fruit, Unirocha, one of the largest exporters, is planning to open a new packhouse next January to meet demand. Improved CA storage conditions will be used to test how long the fruit can be held through the spring and into the summer. The company is also trialling other varieties. {{FRESH PRODUCE }}