A recent survey by Grodan, a producer of high-tech substrates for vegetable and flower cultivation, shows that demand for greenhouse vegetables in Russia increased by 7% during the 2024/25 autumn-winter season compared to two years ago. About 68% of respondents reported consuming fresh vegetables in colder months, up from 61% in 2022/23. While one-third of consumers eat fresh vegetables daily, 43% consume them at least several times a week.
For 47% of respondents, the origin of vegetables—domestic or imported—no longer matters, up from 28% two years ago. Meanwhile, 18% prefer locally grown produce, while only 3% favor imports, down from 8%. About 15% avoid greenhouse vegetables, citing pesticide concerns (2%) and uncertainty about winter growing conditions (13%). Another 17% said they eat fewer vegetables in winter due to changes in taste.
Technical consultant Daniil Fedorov explains that modern greenhouse farming ensures vegetables are grown under stable conditions year-round, using artificial lighting to supplement natural sunlight. Advances in technology have also reduced the need for growth enhancers and pesticides, making greenhouse vegetables safer.
Despite increasing demand, high prices limit consumption. According to Rosstat, vegetable consumption in Russia grew by 2.5% in 2023, but many consumers say they cannot afford to buy more due to rising costs.
One example is cucumbers, which are now more expensive than tomatoes. Cucumbers require more artificial lighting and energy, raising production costs. Additionally, premium cucumber varieties, such as spiny and short-fruited types, are more expensive.
Tomato prices, especially for varieties like Cherry, continue to rise as their demand increases by 5% annually. Despite higher production volumes, Cherry tomatoes remain more expensive than round red tomatoes due to their significantly lower yield per square meter.
Source: www.agroinvestor.ru
