Pineapples are practically like bananas, i.e. with only slight fluctuations between the seasons. "Of course consumption drops a little during the summer months as products like watermelons, melons and stone fruit are more in demand, but they remain popular even in the H&R sector," explains a wholesaler.
The produce from Peru that arrives by sea and is ripened on trees costs around €1.50/kg. The premium produce from the Dominican Republic and Costa Rica that arrives by air costs almost double that.
"The difference in organoleptic quality is noticeable. We have two different types of clients: those who only think about the price and therefore look for the least expensive produce and those who want to keep customers happy especially when it comes to flavor. They pay higher prices and demand a better quality."
Another wholesaler explains that "I sent back pineapples from a big brand because they were green on the outside and black on the inside. It happens. Anyway there is not a lot of produce available at the moment and prices are on the up. We need to make bookings in advance because imports to Europe are lower during this season. What is more, it is difficult to find good pineapples for less than €15/packet."