Prolonged heat has categorised this summer. This hot weather has also influenced the mushroom market. Maurice Koppen, of Oakfield Champignons in the Dutch village of Stamproy: "We have seen less demand this summer than others. People eat less in this weather. They are also more out and about. This reflects back to the mushrooms." Oakfield Champignons cultivates and trades in not only 'classic' white and chestnut mushrooms. They are currently also one of the largest Dutch growers of exotic varieties. They grow seven kinds of exotic mushrooms: shiitakes, oyster mushrooms, beech mushrooms, pioppino (poplar) mushrooms, king oyster mushrooms, maitake (dancing mushrooms), and pompom blanc.
The company anticipates supply and demand. "We have reduced our production based on expected demand. We are, however, just as surprised by this hot weather as everyone else. Due to this, we had to cut back more this year. Thanks to this approach, we are fortunately not left with very large surpluses. We do, however, have to cool the mushrooms down more. This is in contrast to overseas growers, where we see problems. We cultivate our mushrooms on substrate with straw as an important component. The quality of the straw will, however, be different this year. This problem is due to problems farmers are experiencing. The question now is what effect this summer will have on our cultivation in the upcoming season." How is the hot weather affecting prices? "At the moment, prices are picking up again. July was, however, below the usual level on the free market."
Maurice Koppen with king oyster mushrooms
Maurice Koppen inspecting the oyster mushrooms
This summer is the exception. In general, the mushroom market is developing favourably. "We see an increase in demand on the fresh market. There is much discussion over the consumption of meat. An increasing number of people, so-called flexitarians, are sometimes choosing not to eat meat. Mushrooms are good meat substitutes. This is true for traditional, as well as exotic mushroom varieties. We have also noticed that there is a shift toward the exotic varieties. Interest in these mushrooms is growing," explains Maurice.
Maurice Koppen with the pioppino mushrooms
"Traditionally, England has always been a major sales market for us. This trade has dropped sharply. This is partly due to the exchange rate and the uncertainty of Brexit. Germany is now a significant demand destination. We are also getting demand from many other, faraway countries. Sales have long since dropped off in England. Brexit will, therefore, have limited consequences for us", concludes the farmer.
For more information:
Oakfield Champignons
1 Lochtstraat
6039 RV Stramproy (NL)
Tel: +31 (0) 495 564 113
Fax: +31 (0) 495 561 560