“Because of the changeable weather, demand for peaches and nectarines is not very high in Belgium. Supply from Spain is sufficient, there are just less white-fleshed nectarines available. Remarkable this season is that brix levels have been very low up till now. Spain expects high prices, but I think quality needs to be perfect for that. When consumers think peaches or nectarines are not sweet enough, they will wait before buying them,” according to Henk Vlaeminck of Van Dijk Foods Belgium.
Larger volumes arriving
“According to reports brix levels should be better next week,” Vlaeminck continues. “Stonefruit will then be coming from other regions, which were less affected by the changeable spring weather. Furthermore, larger volumes are expected from Spain because of the good weather. Last week we had some shortages, starting next week supply will increase. I expect prices will decrease a little because of this.”
Cherries
Van Dijk Foods also have had Spanish cherries for a few weeks now. “So far we are very positive about these,” says Vlaeminck. “The Ruby does very well, quality is good and the cherries are very flavourful. Brix levels are even over 17. This week we had Cebon cherries for the first time, these are also doing satisfactory.”