Aubergine
Spain – a leading producer of Aubergine
Spain is one of Europe’s main aubergine exporters, with production centred in Almería (greenhouses) and complemented by Murcia and open – field summer crops. It plays a key role in supplying EU markets during winter and spring. Main export season September to April, with reduced summer production mostly for domestic/regional supply. The black aubergine is the most important export type and the standard one in EU supermarkets. Other types are the graffiti, the long and the white aubergine.
Varieties
Black aubergine
Most important export type. Oval to slightly elongated, deep purple/black skin. Glossy appearance, firm flesh, mild and slightly bitter flavour. Good shelf life.
Long aubergine
Long, slim shape, more tender flesh, fewer seeds and slightly sweeter taste. Increasing demand in some EU markets.
Graffiti aubergine
Purple with white stripes. Softer texture, mild flavour. Premium.
White aubergine
White skin, creamy flesh, less bitterness. Limited volumes.
Harvest season by Variety
Sizes and packaging
- Mainly graded by weight (g), 300-500g being the most common for export.
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Packaging formats
- Loose in 5 kg/box
- Flow - wrapped or tray - packed
| Weight (g) |
|---|
| 200-300g |
| 300-400g |
| 400-500g |
| 500g> |