Freshfel meeting on health, sales and the role of Europe

On October 7, the "Freshfel Europe's Policy Meeting" took place in Brussels. More than 80 attendees gathered to listen to various presentations on health, Europe and the role of the fruit and vegetables sector. In the first session, Professor Olivier de Schutter talked about healthy lifestyles and emphasised the need to reach international agreements in this regard.



Click here for the photo report

Joeri Van den Bergh, InSites Consulting 

Joeri Van den Bergh InSites Consulting spoke enthusiastically about "branding to Generation Y." He highlighted the importance of approaching younger consumers to better understand and influence their choices.

Vincent Dolan, Total Produce 

Vincent Dolan, of Total Produce, showed a short video warning of the dangers of obesity. He also spoke about the initiative "Consumer Compass 2015"; an initiative from the industry and Freshfel that entails deeper research on why consumers consume less fruit and vegetables. The study also dwells in the underlying thoughts about fruit and vegetables, about why consumers choose whether or not to consume horticultural products and how they interpret the messages from the fresh produce sector.

Click here for the photo report

After the break there was time to talk about Europe. Jonathan Holslag has great knowledge about Asian countries. He wrote the book: The Power of paradise. Jonathan said that it is high time Europe found a new direction. "The fact is that Europe's income had never dropped so much since World War II, and we are still far from the end of the crisis tunnel. Therefore, something needs to happen in Europe. According to him, it is important that we focus on new markets, but we should certainly also not expect too much from China and India.

Click here for the photo report

Philippe Binard, Freshfel 

Philippe Binard, of Freshfel, presented Freshfel's activities, as well as relevant data and trends about export, promotion and consumption. One of the subjects he touched upon was "Food & Plant Safety and quality." He also discussed the trade opportunities for Europe. "Russia is no longer a trading partner and we are now looking for alternatives. The most difficult months for Europe are yet to come, because the main trading months with this country are usually October to April. This is why we need to quickly focus on new markets, such as Canada and the United States. Additionally, it is also important that we promote fruit and vegetable consumption in Europe itself."

From most speakers you'll find an article within the coming days on FreshPlaza.com