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Position
Hoogstraten strawberries certainly deserve their excellent reputation. The red delicacy is a top product for the auction, and for Belgium. That status is duie to Veiling Hoogstraten's relentless efforts to achieve top quality, and similar efforts on the part of the growers.
History
In the Bronze Age, strawberries were already used by Man, but strawberry plants were only taken from the wild and planted in gardens as from the 14th century. At that time, they were mainly used as an ornamental plant and for medicinal purposes. The fruit was small and the plants were not very productive. Strawberries as we know them are approximately 200 years old and have American ancestry. They originate mainly from the state of Virginia, as well as from Chile. They were brought back by the French explorer named Antoine Amadée Frézier. In the 19th century, cultivation of strawberries became widespread, and now we know no fewer than 600 different varieties, which all have their own qualities and specific taste.
Arrivals
From early March to the end of January, strawberry growers deliver their produce. During those10 months, various types of cultivation are used: heated glasshouses, unheated glasshouses, plastic tunnels, mini-tunnels and open air. Taste and quality remain consistently high throughout the period.
A comparative statistical overview of the arrivals, volume of sales and average prices for strawberries that have been traded in the last 2 years via Veiling Hoogstraten can be found here.
Nutritional value
Strawberries are very rich in vitamin C, contain a lot of fibre and not many calories.
Storage
Strawberries are best stored at a temperature of 1 to 5°C. Consume strawberries as soon as possible after purchase. If a short period of storage is necessary, keep them in the refrigerator.
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