Hungary is the most important horseradish producer in the European Union

Horseradish

Vegetables

Hungary

Published Apr 9, 2023

Tridge summary

In 2022, horseradish production took place on an area of nearly 1,194 hectares in Hungary, and the harvesting work lasts from October until the beginning of the next planting season, i.e. until March. Based on the latest data, more than 10,000 tons of horseradish were produced in this country last season, which is almost half of the total annual harvest of the European Union. 80-90% of the horseradish produced in our country is exported, including to Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic, typically in fresh, juice form.

Original content

Hungarian horseradish is in demand abroad, and cultivation is basically concentrated in one district, wrote the National Chamber of Agrarian Economy. Thanks to the phased harvesting and storage technology, the Hungarian harvest is sufficient to serve not only the domestic market, but also more than half of the European market until the new horseradish is harvested. Horseradish, in addition to its well-known - and highly sought-after - grated version during the Easter season, is also used for pickled and vinegared preserved products it is also used as a flavoring. The characteristic pungent taste of horseradish is caused by the butylthiocyanate and allyl isothiocyanate in its root. These compounds are very similar to the active ingredient of mustard oil, they act on the mucous membrane and lacrimal glands. This is why tears come to our eyes when we consume it, and it also irritates our nose strongly. Freshly grated horseradish has a high vitamin C content; has a bactericidal and ...

Source: Magro