Press release

First Belgian aubergines herald the start of spring

Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Wednesday 18 February – At BelOrta, the aubergine season has got under way with the sale of the first Belgian aubergines of the year. These early aubergines were grown by the Van Nuffelen family (Stannuco) from Wommelgem and purchased by Fruithandel Sebrechts from Broechem, who are the first to enjoy this vegetable.

Aubergine lovers can once again look forward to fresh, locally grown produce. With the start of the Belgian aubergine season, the first fruits are now available. In the coming weeks, supply will continue to increase, with peak volumes expected between May and July. The season traditionally runs until November.

Last year, we sold just over 13,000,000 kg of aubergines at BelOrta, a volume in line with previous years. With these early aubergines, we are launching the new season with a fresh, high-quality product grown on home soil. They are also an immediate sign of spring and of the arrival of other spring vegetables and fruit such as peppers, courgettes and strawberries.Kelly Van Dessel, Supervisor Vegetable Sales at BelOrta

Earlier market research by GfK Belgium, commissioned by VLAM, had already shown that consumption in Brussels and Wallonia is significantly higher than in Flanders, a trend that continues. The research also shows that aubergines remain particularly popular among young people.