The sky-high chicory prices did not fall with the arrival of the new year. "In Belgium, not all chicory roots have been harvested yet, and they likely won't be fully harvested either. Surrounding countries are in a similar situation, resulting in a continuing shortage," begins Benny Cuypers of BelOrta.
"The chicory situation is well-known. The extremely wet weather conditions in the fall caused root harvesting problems. The loss varies from grower to grower, but it's not an issue only we face. The Netherlands and France have many problems, too. The recent extensive fire at a Dutch chicory root storage facility has compounded the issue. All things considered, we expect 2024 to be a 'special' year, with regular market shortages."
Demand persists
And that at a time when demand usually peaks. "Chicory remains a quintessential winter product. It's heavily consumed in Belgium, especially towards and during the holiday season. It's not always been easy to meet all that demand. You can only sell what you have. But we've tried to serve our customers as best we can, and I believe we've been relatively successful," says Benny.
Yet, demand persisted, even after New Year's, leading to sky-high prices. "The cold weather, coupled with the higher prices of other winter vegetables, ensure that chicory consumption continues steadily. We're still working with prices of €2.50 per kg, which is high. If you want the product, you'll have to pay for it. There are few alternatives. The situation in the Netherlands and France is no different, and there are no cheap alternatives readily available. Demand isn't really decreasing anywhere in Europe."
"The market will, thus, remain tense for a while. However, demand traditionally decreases around February/March when temperatures start rising. That could ease the situation somewhat, but it's always hard to predict," Benny explains.
Anxious leek market
In addition to chicory, prices across the entire spectrum of winter vegetables remain high. "There aren't many products available during the winter, but what we do have is flying off the shelves at good prices. Leek prices stay high, too. The rainfall combined with this week's frost means the European supply isn't overly large."
"That's causing some market anxiety. That's also why prices climbed again over the past week. The frost generally won't affect the leeks; it seems it will be gone after this week. Also, leeks can handle frost well. Nonetheless, the market's still a little tense and nervous," Benny concludes.
For more information:
Benny Cuypers
BelOrta
120 Mechelsesteenweg
2860, Sint-Katelijne-Waver, BE
Tel.: +32 (0) 155 51 111
info@belorta.be
www.belorta.be