How to eat in season in the EU?
As consumers, we can play an important role in the transition towards more sustainable ways of producing food.
Europe is generally characterised by a Temperate climate. This overview focuses on Mediterranean, Temperate, and Oceanic climates (indicative areas), which represent the majority of fruit and vegetable production in the EU. Northern climate zones are not included in this version of the calendar.
The following lists give a non-exhaustive idea of some of the fruit and vegetables harvested in the EU by the top producing countries.
Mediterranean Climate
Where in the EU?
Spain, Italy, Greece, Southern France, Eastern Portugal, Malta, Cyprus, Southern Croatia.
General characteristics
springStrawberries, oranges, cherries, apricots, lemons, grapefruits, pears, apples
summerApricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, watermelons, melons, figs
autumnKakis, apples, pears, pomegranates, table grapes, kiwis
winterRaspberries, strawberries, kiwis, lemons, mandarins, oranges, apples, pears, grapefruits
springChards, artichokes, broccoli, asparagus, spinach, peas, broad beans, green onions, green garlic, leeks
summerTomatoes, aubergines, courgettes, cucumbers, peppers, radishes, carrots, chards, leeks, lettuces
autumnEndives, cauliflowers, green beans, chards, pumpkins, beetroots, lettuces, cabbages
winterChards, artichokes, celeries, broccoli, cauliflowers, squash, pumpkins, escaroles, spinach, lettuces
Temperate climate
Where in the EU?
France, Germany, Austria, Hungary, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Romania, Luxembourg.
General characteristics
TemperaturesModerate temperatures with distinct seasons.
RainfallModerate precipitation.
SunlightCloudy during the winter, sunny in the summer.
springKiwis, apples, pears, grapefruits, strawberries
summerApricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, watermelons, melons, cherries, figs
autumnRaspberries, apples, pears, table grapes
winterKakis, mandarins, oranges, apples, pears, grapefruits, kiwis
springCarrots, celeries, spinach, lettuces, asparagus, broad beans, leeks, endives
summerTomatoes, artichokes, aubergines, chards, broccoli, cucumber, courgettes, squash, green beans, lettuces, bell peppers, sweetcorn
autumnEndives, cauliflowers, green beans, chards, beetroots, broccoli, squash, pumpkins, carrots, cabbages
winterEndives, cauliflowers, green beans, chards, beetroots, broccoli, squash, pumpkins, carrots, leeks
