The EBF represents the organic fruit sector
Europäisches Bioobst-Forum is an organisation for groups of organic fruit growers from all over Europe. The groups of organic fruit growers exchange information and share their experience on a regular basis and collect information on organic fruit production and the organic fruit market. Europäisches Bioobst-Forum coordinates this exchange of information.
Organic apple harvest forecast for 2026
In keeping with tradition, the first harvest forecast for organic apples and pears in Europe was surveyed amongst EBF members at the General Assembly of the European Organic Fruit Forum (EBF) on 23 June 2026 (this time in Mechelen, Belgium).
According to the forecast
– 8 per cent fewer organic apples are expected for the fresh market
+ 17 per cent for organic pears; a good harvest is expected
+ Organic consumption is rising steadily across Europe once again
Harvest Forecast by Country
In terms of volume, the decline is greatest in Germany at 13 per cent. This is because Germany had a very strong harvest the previous year. In Italy, the expected 4 per cent decline is mainly attributable to a fall in Golden Delicious production.
Austria expects a 13 per cent decline compared with the strong previous year. Despite this decline, yields are showing increasing stabilisation following several years of severe blossom frosts. Belgium expects a sharper decline, particularly for Jonagold.
Harvest forecasts by variety
Jonagold, Elstar and Braeburn have returned to a lower average yield following the strong harvests of the previous year.
Gala and Pinova are once again expected to yield a similar total harvest volume in Europe this year as in recent years.
The total volume of Golden Delicious is declining steadily year on year. Topaz is forecast to be down 7 per cent on the previous year.
The variety mix in the European harvest is shifting
The most important variety is Gala, followed by Topaz. In third place is the group comprising new varieties. Jonagold and Elstar follow in fourth and fifth place. Golden Delicious, in sixth place, is likely to continue to decline.
Hailstorms so far in northern Germany and Belgium are not reducing the total volume, but they are shifting the balance between fresh-eating fruit and industrial fruit.
Fruit sizes are expected to be slightly larger than last year due to the generally slightly lower number of fruits per tree. This year’s scab season was well managed in almost all regions. Normal, good fruit quality is therefore foreseeable. Austria expects a 13 per cent decline compared with the strong previous year. Despite this decline, yields are showing increasing stabilisation following several years of severe blossom frosts.
Although some challenges still lie ahead, the conclusion of the current season is likely to proceed as planned in most regions. With the outlook for the new harvest, the mood at this EBF Forecast Congress 2026 was one of confidence.
The trend in organic consumption showed a clear and steady increase once again in all the reports presented at the congress on consumption data and consumer behaviour. This reinforces the sense of confidence.
European Organic Fruit Forum EBF 06/2026