Decline in consumption but increase in expenditures

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the consumption of fruits and vegetables in 2013 totaled 8.6 million pounds, a slight decrease of -0.4% compared to 2012. The consumption of fruits declined by -2 2% with a total of 4.6 million pounds, but that of vegetables increased by +1.8% to 2.9 million pounds.

By products, we can note significant variations with lower consumption of apples (-7.2%), mandarins (- 8.6%), pears (-14%), melons (-3%) and watermelons (-0.1%). Instead, the consumption increased for cherries (+18%), strawberries (+4.9%) and grapes (+4.2%).

Regarding vegetables, increased consumption of green beans (+8.3%), zucchini (+5.6%), onions (4.1%), peppers (+1%) and tomatoes (+0.7%).

Spanish households expenditures for fruits and vegetables totaled 11.9 million euros, or +4.4% compared to 2012. Expenditures for fruits increased by +3.6% and +1.7% for vegetables.

Food consumption of households increased by +2.4% (EUR 69.2 million), outside domestic consumption decreased by -3.1% (€ 32 million). All food expenditures amounted to 101.2 million euros, or +0.6% compared to 2012.

source : fepex