Family Van Crombrugge

In Merchtem, brothers Evert and Arnout Van Crombrugge grow onions and shallots for BelOrta together with their father. Evert has been working in the family business since 2021, but farming has been a common thread in the family for much longer. “Our uncle also used to be a grower for BelOrta. Back then, we still grew Belgian endive, but we have since stopped doing so.”

Today, the family focuses entirely on onions and shallots. A large proportion reaches customers through BelOrta in Zellik. They also supply several fellow growers and local shops. “We try to sell our products locally as much as possible. That local connection is important to us.”

Arnout and Evert particularly enjoy closely following how the crops develop. “Walking through the field and seeing everything growing well is very rewarding. You start with a small seed and work step by step towards a high-quality product. When people are happy with it, it feels like a real reward for all the hard work.”

Achieving good quality also requires a great deal of attention. “You have to deal with the weather, too much or too little water, changing regulations and market prices. That can sometimes make things difficult.” The family therefore makes a conscious effort to keep the business manageable. “We want to be able to closely monitor everything we are doing. Because we are here every day, we can respond quickly when a problem arises.” The brothers are particularly proud of the way the family works together. “Together, we manage to grow a high-quality product and bring it to market from here. That is very rewarding.”

They also want to show what local production can offer. “We can grow high-quality onions and shallots close to home. It is great when people make a conscious choice to buy locally grown vegetables.”

The onions and shallots are mainly harvested in September. They are then stored, allowing the family to supply them for much of the year.

Evert and Arnout’s favourite time in the field is the middle of summer. That is when the onions are growing at full speed and the field turns a fresh green. “When everything looks healthy and thriving, it remains a special moment for me.”

Evert ends with a tasty message and a practical tip. “Onions are not only delicious, but also very healthy. They contain vitamin C and you can happily eat them every day.” For anyone whose eyes water while chopping onions, he recommends peeling and cutting them under running water. “That way, the gas released by the onion reacts with the water instead of your eyes.”