Lagache Expedition, the Brussels sprout specialist in Hauts-de-France
06 February 2025
The end of the campaign is just around the corner… Make the most of it!
At Lagache, we love Brussels sprouts and we’re proud of them! It’s good, it’s virtuous and it’s produced in France! We’re going to help you rediscover it, and explain it all to you:
A few figures to help you understand (source: CTIFL and Kantar)
Brussels sprout production in Europe (fresh and industrial) amounts to 167,000 tonnes per year. The undisputed leader is the Benelux countries with 119,000 tonnes. Just behind, France produces 13,000 tonnes, 83% of which is grown in the Haut-de-France region! So the Hauts-de-France region is a must for anyone wanting high-quality French Brussels sprouts!
Of the 13,000 tonnes of Brussels sprouts made in France, fresh produce accounts for 60% (7,800 tonnes) and industrial production 40% (5,200 tonnes). Production runs from mid-September to the end of February.
What is the consumption of fresh Brussels sprouts in France?
The fresh market consumes 10,200 tonnes a year.
- Good news #1: this means that we can cover just over 75% of current consumption needs.
- Good news #2: the potential is there, with 10,200 tonnes equivalent to 150 grams per inhabitant per year! And only 19% of households buy it at least once a year! The fans are the over-50s. Those who have yet to be won over are the under-35s. It’s worth noting that Brussels sprouts are widely consumed in Hauts-de-France, unlike in the southern regions.
- The main varieties we prefer are the following: Albarus, Trimstar, Abacus. They are the most suitable for the fresh market and the tastiest.
The trend is downwards! While F&V consumption rose sharply during Covid (households were cooking more), the trend is back downwards, especially for vegetables… and for our regional star.
And yet… Brussels sprouts have it all!
- It’s quick and easy to cook
- It has many nutritional virtues and health benefits: it is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins C and K, and contains potassium, manganese and other minerals.
- It is a powerful antioxidant
- It has protective effects against certain cancers (colon, breast, prostate)
- It is rich in fibre, which aids digestion
- Helps maintain good cardiovascular health
- It’s low in calories yet nutritious
And it’s good!
So, dear Retailers, why not reserve a special place for them on your shelves and put the spotlight back on these little green balls that are just waiting to be tasted?
