The greenhouse vegetable season is drawing to a close in Belgium. The productions of various vegetables are decreasing, and in general the mood is "not dissatisfied", according to Benny Cuypers from LAVA. “I am thinking especially of bell pepper, cucumber, and aubergine growers, for these products did well to very well this season.”
“Fewer and fewer cucumbers of Belgian origin are on the market, and many retailers have switched to Spanish. Several weeks ago, the prices skyrocketed, so they decided to switch. That cannot be stopped and happens every year.” Prices are still reasonable. “Depending on size, we are now talking about 20 to 35 cents.”
Aubergines
“For aubergines, it is almost the same as with cucumbers. Eventually, the domestic product becomes ‘too expensive’ for supermarkets, and they rigorously decide to switch. There would also be too few products in total to keep the domestic market stocked, so that is just necessary.” Cuypers indicates that the price of aubergines is currently around 70 cents. “That is not a very pleasing price to finish the season with.”
“Courgettes were still very expensive two to three weeks ago, and volume became smaller. By now, the switch has been made for them as well. The outdoor season is nearly over, and that will leave us with the domestic greenhouse supply.”
Bell pepper
“Bell peppers will remain on the market for two to three more weeks, when talking about the slightly larger samples. There will be plenty of product on the market for the remainder of October. Prices have been slightly more difficult in recent weeks. It is slightly disappointing now that we are headed towards the finish.”
“Tomatoes will remain on the market for a while longer. They have been available year-round for a few years now, and that has become noticeable with retailers as well. Price is currently reasonable. Both loose and vine are sold at just over one euro.”
For more information:
LAVA cvba
Leuvensesteenweg 130 A
3191 Boortmeerbeek