The Rungis International Market near Paris is the world’s largest wholefood market. Of the market's five main sections (fish, meat/offal, flowers, dairy and fruits and vegetables), the fruit and vegetable section is the most important one. 363 merchants spread over nine pavilions sell products from all over the world. During a visit to the market, the broad product range is the first thing that catches the eye.
Daily business
Rungis has always been important for France’s culinary heritage. It is where new products are received and tested. According to the website of Rungis International, “kiwis, miniature vegetables and edible flowers once started their French career at Rungis”. The same might happen to black radishes and crapaudines, today’s new arrivals.
Crapaudines, an old beetroot variety
In 2016 the merchants at Rungis sold 737,268 tonnes of fruit and 461,739 tonnes of vegetables. Compared to 2015, the sales of fruit increased by 6% and vegetables by 2%. Kiwis, avocados and grapes especially gained in popularity. Among other things the increase in sales is explained by different services that recently have been developed by the merchants, like the preparation and delivery of orders.
In 2016 the sales of tomatoes increased by 3,7% and almost reached 90,000 tonnes
In the centre of the fruit and vegetable section of Rungis, a special place is reserved for the French products. In the “Comptoir du Carreau”, which is a haven of tranquillity amidst the bustle of the market, French producers present seasonal products.
Rungis International Market has a vivid history. The wholesale food market has its origins in the 10th century, when it was still located in les Halles, in the heart of Paris. In 1969 the area of 10 hectares became too small and the market moved to Rungis, close to the railway, the highway and Orly International Airport. Nowadays Rungis occupies a surface of 237 hectares.
