Belgians talk quality

Belgian producers were in Berlin to promote their Flandria quality seal.

Paul Coenen, director of VLAM in Germany, the organization responsible for promoting sales of Flemish produce at home and abroad, said the annual production of vegetables in Belgium totaled more than 1 million tonnes, three quarters of which is exported.

Coenen said, each year, over 50 different types of vegetables receive the Flandria quality seal.

“This makes Flandria the leading brand name for fresh vegetables in Europe,” he said.

He said, to mark the seal’s tenth anniversary, 18 Belgian exporters exhibited at Fruit Logistica last week.

He added: “In view of Belgium’s role as a hub for fresh fruit and vegetables in Europe it is absolutely essential for us to attend this major industry meeting.”