Coöperatie Hoogstraten Strawberries

The image shows fresh strawberries in a plastic punnet featuring a scannable QR code on a black adhesive strip. This specific labeling and traceability system is a hallmark of Coöperatie Hoogstraten, a major Belgian growers' association and auction house.

Hoogstraten pioneered the use of unique QR codes on each punnet to provide customers with full transparency. By scanning the code, consumers can trace their strawberries back to the specific farmer's profile, learn about the cultivation methods, and even send messages to the growers. While the cooperative has transitioned much of its volume to cardboard packaging to reduce plastic waste, they continue to use recycled PET plastic punnets for specific customer requirements, maintaining the same digital traceability features.

Originally founded in 1933 as a local vegetable auction in Belgium, the cooperative has grown into a world-class fruit and vegetable specialist, particularly famous for its high-quality strawberries grown by approximately 200 affiliated Belgian and Dutch farmers.