Research of demand and consumer preferences of processed fruit and berry raw materials and products based on them

Scientific research is aimed at studying the demand and consumer preferences in choosing the type of fresh raw materials, processed fruit and berry products and products based on them. In order to conduct a consumer assessment, it is necessary to investigate the preferences of consumers and identify by what criteria they prefer to buy and consume processed fruit and berry products. A sociological survey was conducted in order to identify and then form the consumer properties of processed berries and stone fruits. The analysis of the survey showed that the most popular berries are: strawberries, black currants, cherries, cranberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. The results showed that the largest part of respondents prefer to buy frozen and dried berries in the spring and winter period in order to make up for vitamin deficiency, the rest do not buy these products, I motivate that fresh berries are always better than processed ones and cannot make up for all the necessary micronutrients. It was found that 21% of consumers prefer frozen berries and fruits to be used for compotes, 18% – fruit and berry fillings, 16% – jelly, 15% – fruit drinks, 9% – jelly-like products and only 4% in thawed form. Catering establishments use frozen berries and stone fruits mainly for the preparation of compotes, fruit drinks, smoothies (38%), as well as for sauces, culinary, sweet and dessert dishes. Confectionery enterprises are used for the preparation of berry fillings. Consumers prefer dried fruit and berry products in the form of snacks for snacking, making drinks, as a component in various confectionery products and in jelly, and desserts.