Press release

Local bean season picks up at BelOrta with first flat beans

Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Thursday 12 March 2025 – The local bean season is gaining momentum at BelOrta with the sale of the first flat beans. The first crates of these legumes were grown by the Van Hoof family from Lier and purchased by Van Aarle Gebroeders (Schijndel, the Netherlands).

With the first flat beans appearing on the auction clock, the season has officially started. Supply will continue until October, with peak volumes during the summer months. Flat beans have been grown in Belgium for many years and are a familiar seasonal product for Belgian consumers.

Flat beans are especially popular in Flanders, where they have held a firm place in the kitchen for generations. It is a vegetable with a strong tradition that brings back memories of classic, home-style dishes for many people. We also see that appreciation for flat beans often increases with age,” says Guy Jennes, Sales Supervisor at BelOrta.

Flat beans are a source of fibre and contain various vitamins and minerals. They are known for their long, flat shape and fresh taste. They are a versatile vegetable that works well in both classic and modern dishes. In Belgian cuisine, they are often served with potatoes and meat dishes, but they also fit perfectly in salads, stir-fries or vegetarian meals.

Alongside flat beans, other local bean varieties will appear on the auction clock throughout the season. Butter beans are available from April to October and broad beans from May to July. Later in the season, green beans (June to October) and white beans (September to April) will follow.