This year's drought in Hungary has presented challenges for the canning industry, affecting both crop yields and quality. The National Chamber of Agrarian Economy reports that the industry secured an average yield of sweet corn and a lower yield of green peas. The adverse weather has led to an increase in defective products, negatively impacting processing rates and finished product volumes. Despite these challenges, the industry continues to export a considerable portion of its vegetable and fruit preserves to international markets.
The drought has been a recurring issue, affecting the cultivation of crops designated for canning. With a low proportion of irrigated areas, drought years significantly impact production and economic outcomes. The cultivation area for vegetables has been decreasing, with sweet corn and green peas occupying significant portions of the crop area. The canning industry processes substantial quantities of these crops annually, alongside smaller volumes of other vegetables and fruits like cherries, which are significant for fruit preserves.
Heat preservation is a key technology in the canning industry, allowing products to have a shelf life of up to five years without refrigeration. This method is critical for ensuring the longevity of canned goods. A significant share of Hungary's canned products, particularly sweet corn and green peas, are exported, with Germany, Poland, France, and Italy being major markets. The Agricultural Economics Institute notes that a high percentage of these products are sold abroad, highlighting the industry's export orientation.
Source: Trade Magazine