"This summer is characterised by dry, hot weather. Our growers are hard at work supplying water to their plants. They are often busy at night, moving irrigation pumps. They hardly sleep and are worked very hard", says Guy Jennes of BelOrta. This Belgian auction house has heard that many farmers are still able to irrigate well. "We are keeping in mind that the dry weather might have long-term consequences. We must prepare ourselves for this. We are trying to keep ourselves well-informed on a daily basis about the situation in the fields."
There are fewer cauliflowers due to the dry spell. "The supply is noticeably less than average. This will continue due to the dry weather. The other full soil vegetables are, however, growing. There are already leeks available. Though everyone is looking towards the autumn when the large volumes are supplied. We have not heard any bad news yet. We have also not yet heard if the dry weather has had any effect on the cabbage or Brussel sprouts", says Guy. According to BelOrta, growers are very calm at the moment despite the weather conditions.
Forgotten vegetables
Tomatoes, lettuce, chicory, leeks, bell peppers, cucumber, and courgettes are the most consumed vegetables in Belgium. These are supplied in bulk. "Lately, the consumption of vegetables has been fairly stable. Among Belgian consumers, these kinds have been the most popular for years. We are, however, seeing that the so-called forgotten vegetables such as beets, turnips, and beans are gaining popularity", says Guy. The increased attention to health means consumers are eating more healthy. This diet includes fruit and vegetables. BelOrta has, however, noticed that the demand for vegetables has remained relatively stable for years.
BelOrta's sales hall
Neighbouring countries
Belgium exports vegetables mainly to its neighbouring countries of France, Germany, and the Netherlands. "BelOrta Auctions has a wide assortment of top quality conventional and organic fruit and vegetables. We try to use this to distinguish ourselves. Many of our clients appreciate this wide range of quality products. Our clients have the opportunity to react to supply and demand on a daily basis. This is thanks to buying at auction. We think it is important to play in on demand. We want to offer our clients as many products as possible", concludes Guy.
For more information:
Guy Jennes
BelOrta
Sales Supervisor
120 Mechelsesteenweg
B-2860 Sint-Katelijne-Waver
+32 (0) 15 56 52 94
+32 (0) 478 24 73 09