Germany: 50 percent self-sufficiency

The German Mushroom and Fungi Producers Association (BDC) expects a total mushroom production of around 67,000 metric tones (60,000 metric tons for fresh use and 7,000 metric tons for production) this year. That means an increase of about 3,000 metric tons compared to 2014. According to the statement of Michael Schattenberg, BDC chairman, made for the 67th annual general meeting in Potsdam, a further increase in production volume is expected in 2016. “We will reach a degree of self-sufficiency of 50% for button mushrooms. And that is a good thing, as German produce is as popular as ever.”

Fresh German mushrooms are still very popular with the consumers

As a comparison, only 38% of the vegetables come from Germany except for cabbage, 100% of the cabbage is produced in Germany.

Despite increasingly difficult situations, the German mushroom growers keep competing on the current market. In addition to the minimum wage, which considerably increased the paperwork, a burden from perspective of the companies, the continuing high prices for energy and the German Renewable Energy Act surcharges are disadvantages compared to producers in Western and in Eastern Europe.

The currently discussed manure regulations could provide new problems. The BDC successfully used its public relations this year: The appearance in the mushroom exhibition and many cooking shows were popular. In January 2016 the BDC will present itself, together with the Central Association of Horticulture (ZVG) as part of the "International Green Week" to politicians and Berlin.

Source and image: BDC