Discover how Swiss farmer Simon Räss revolutionized organic berry farming in Zurich by producing healthy superfoods locally. A story of innovation and sustainability.
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🍓 Swiss Superfoods: Simon Räss’s Inspiring Journey in Organic Berry Farming
In an era where most superfoods travel thousands of miles before reaching our plates, Swiss farmer Simon Räss is changing the game. Alongside his brother Christoph, Simon has built a revolutionary berry farm in Benken, Zurich, growing powerful superfoods right at home.
👨🌾 From Potatoes to Berries: A Bold Agricultural Shift
Originally, the Räss family focused on traditional farming — cultivating potatoes and raising cattle. However, everything changed when Christoph’s girlfriend began working at a berry processing plant. That exposure sparked their curiosity and pushed the brothers toward something new — berry cultivation in Switzerland.
“Superfoods from South America? We have local superfoods too.”
Recognizing a gap in the Swiss market, they took a chance — and built something remarkable.
🌱 Swiss-Grown Berries: A Full Table of Superfoods
The Räss farm offers a wide variety of berries from April to October, including:
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Blackberries
Redcurrants
Blackcurrants
Goji berries
Honeyberries
Sea buckthorn
Serviceberries
They also experimented with niche berries, giving Swiss customers more nutritious options, all locally grown and organically produced.
🧬 What Makes Berries “Superfoods”?
Berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Here’s how they boost health:
Blueberries & blackberries: Rich in antioxidants and fiber
Sea buckthorn: Packed with vitamin C
Redcurrants & raspberries: High in beta-carotene and vitamin C
These nutrients help strengthen the immune system, support digestion, and reduce inflammation — all while tasting amazing.
“Our body needs sufficient nutrients, and berries are a delicious way to get them.”
💰 Local Quality vs. Imported Quantity
Swiss products typically come with a higher price tag — but quality, trust, and origin make all the difference.
Their farm shop attracts health-conscious buyers looking for clean, organic berries
Large distributors appreciate knowing exactly where the berries come from
Local farming isn’t just about freshness — it’s about trust and sustainability.
🚧 Farming Challenges: Weather, Pests & Learning Curves
As climate change increases, so do farming challenges. Simon and Christoph face:
Hailstorms (mitigated with protective nets)
Pests like the cherry vinegar fly and Japanese beetle
Unpredictable weather patterns
They’ve also had to scale down goji berries and rethink serviceberry cultivation — proving innovation isn’t without risk.
“We reinvest earnings and can’t afford mistakes, so we test everything carefully.”
🌾 Farming Innovation: From Grapes to Pharma
Beyond berries, the Räss farm also grows:
Fungus-resistant grape varieties (FRGs)
Apples, pears, cherries, plums, and quinces
Plant materials for pharmaceutical industries (during winter)
This diversification keeps the farm active and profitable year-round, while staying eco-friendly.
🥗 Healthy Eating & Organic Farming: The Bigger Picture
Imported berries often don’t meet Swiss safety standards and may contain pesticides. Locally grown, organic berries:
Are cleaner and safer
Use fewer resources (like water and fertilizer)
Support the local economy
The Räss brothers want Swiss people to eat healthy and eat local — and their farm is proof that both are possible.
“Healthy eating starts with trusted local food.”
🌍 A Swiss Model for Sustainable Superfoods
Simon Räss didn’t just start a berry farm — he built a model of sustainable farming and healthy local eating. His story is a blueprint for:
Young farmers
Organic food advocates
Environmentally conscious consumers
Through passion, risk, and innovation, he’s showing the world that the future of food is local.
✍️ Author: Real Neel
Founder – World Farmer Story
Get in Touch: worldfarmerstory@gmail.com