In many European countries, cucumber ranks among the top three most-consumed vegetables. Whether sliced into salads, layered on sandwiches, enjoyed as a healthy snack, or floating in a refreshing glass of infused water, cucumbers seem to pop up everywhere. In the Netherlands and Germany, cucumber consumption has been steadily climbing in recent years.
© Groenten Fruit Huis
One segment showing particularly strong growth is the snack cucumber. In both the Netherlands and Germany, nearly 20 percent of all consumer spending on cucumbers now goes to these small, ready-to-eat varieties. They’re especially popular with families with children—this group buys about half of all snack cucumbers available in stores, according to figures from GroentenFruit Huis.
© Groenten Fruit Huis
Where are cucumbers grown? Spain leads Europe’s production rankings, followed by the Netherlands, Poland, and France. Dutch cucumbers have a remarkably short journey to market—around 80 percent are sold in nearby Germany, the Netherlands itself, and the United Kingdom, keeping transport distances (and the cucumbers) fresh and crisp.
Source: GroentenFruit Huis
Publication date:
Tue 19 Aug 2025