It has become evident again this year that achieving a stable cauliflower season is challenging. "We can be satisfied with the pricing in general, but on the production side, it has been a struggle to obtain the correct volumes," says Benny Cuypers from BelOrta.
Depending on the weather, the cauliflower season for the cooperative is expected to last until the end of November. "However, the production side has not gone very smoothly. The wet weather conditions in the spring complicated planting, and we also experienced regular hailstorms, which caused significant damage. Nevertheless, this has led to relatively high prices, which we can't complain about."
"We primarily supply the domestic market, but we also export some kilos to countries like Germany and France," Benny continues. "However, cauliflower cultivation remains a concern. It's a highly weather-dependent product. If it's too wet, too dry, or too hot, you can quickly run into problems. Fortunately, there's still some production expected in the coming weeks. The last plantings were carried out under good conditions, so I expect we can finish the season strong."
Start of the main season for field vegetables
The change in weather also marks the start of the season for many field vegetables. "Products such as leeks, parsnips, radishes, and cabbages are all beginning their season, and so far, things are going well. We did notice that the cold and wet spring caused some delays, resulting in a limited supply at the beginning. However, with the generally good demand, we can maintain fair prices."
Finally, Benny states that they are waiting for the new chicory carrots. "Last year, there were significant issues with carrot production, which has resulted in a tight supply in the market and high prices. This trend is evident everywhere. We're waiting for the new carrots, which are expected to arrive in November. Depending on how the cultivation has gone, the new season will then be set in motion. It's difficult to predict exactly what it will look like, but we will start harvesting in the coming weeks, and by the end of November, we should have a clearer picture of the expectations for the new season. Until then, we will continue to experience some scarcity," Benny concludes.
New sorting center to be showcased during Open Company Day
On Sunday, October 6, BelOrta will also welcome the public to its new sorting center for apples and pears in Borgloon for the Open Company Day. This tour offers visitors a chance to take a behind-the-scenes look at the complete sorting process of top fruit.
The center, which was put into operation in 2023, covers an area of 11,800 square meters and has an annual processing capacity of 40,000 to 60,000 tons of apples and pears. During the event, visitors will be guided step by step through the process, from washing the fruit to sorting it using optical and infrared technology.
In addition to the sorting process, BelOrta will also provide a glimpse into the packaging department. This hall has been set up as an experience area where visitors can participate in tastings, meet the growers, and learn more about the cooperative's sustainability initiatives. Additionally, the photography exhibition "RIJP," featuring works by photographer Jimmy Kets, will be part of the program.
For more information:
Benny Cuypers
BelOrta
Mechelsesteenweg 120
B-2860 Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0)15 55 11 11
[email protected]
www.belorta.be