European fruit production was down in 2001, but above the six-year average, industry representatives revealed at last week's Fruit Logistica conference.

Dr Hans Christoph Behr of ZMP told delegates of the Berlin show that the estimated 31.7 million tonnes of fruit to come out of Europe in 2001 was lower than 2000 and 1999.

He said the reduced volumes were the result of lower yields in most produce across much of Europe.

'Whereas the reduction in 2000 was largely due to a smaller citrus harvest, in 2001 there was a decline across a wide range of product, comprising summer fruits, autumn fruits and stored fruit, ie strawberries, cherries, kiwis and pomaceous fruits.

'Although last year there was a substantial fall in production in Spain and the UK, in 2001 all other countries were affected.' Behr went on to add that fruit production in Germany was down to 1.2mt, although berry volumes were the same as 2000.

Frosts damaged German stone fruit crops; heavy rain affected cherries and apples were hit by hail.