The map of brassica production and consumption varies depending on the product. To understand it, we need to divide the group into the different vegetables that comprise it and analyse them individually. Thus, broccoli is mostly produced and consumed in Spain, UK and Turkey; Brussels Sprouts in the Netherlands, Belgium and the UK; cabbage in Russia, Hungary, Poland, Germany and the UK, and, finally, cauliflower in Belgium, the Netherlands, UK, France, Italy and Spain.
In addition to the countries that have traditionally invested in brassica growing, there are other emerging countries that are becoming increasingly important. In general, we can perceive a movement from the Western countries that have been the traditional brassica growers towards the East where some countries, such as Turkey, Greece, Ukraine or Kazakhstan, are emerging on the market and increasing their brassica production. And without forgetting Russia, one of the most important producers for cabbages.
Obviously, there are also differences depending on the season. South Europe is the main producer in winter, from November to March. Spain, for example, is the traditional brassica supplier for North European countries in winter, particularly for cauliflower.
Brassica consumption is highest in Northwest Europe. Italy, however, stands out for having the highest cauliflower consumption in Europe and Russia has the highest cabbage consumption (for example, average cabbage consumption is 20 kg per capita in Russia, compared with 4 kg in the Netherlands).
Vegetable Production (‘000 tonnes)
Total production (EU-27): 70 million tonnes per year
Vegetable Consumption (g/day per capita)
FAO/WHO: 400 g/day
Source: DAFNE, Data Food Networking 2006, Fruit & Vegetables 24th January 2007