Surprisingly fun
In the heart of the Hageland region, you will find the family business Fruit Vanhellemont. André Vanhellemont and Jeannine Nijs have been growing apples and pears since 1969. In 1996, their son Mario joined the business, followed by his brother Gert in 2004.
The family works with apples all year round. The pears are harvested, sorted, and packed until the end of June, after which the pear season ends. Part of the harvest is stored in their own cold-storage facilities, while another part is sold through BelOrta. Today, they grow six varieties of apples and six varieties of pears.
More than just fruit
“Fruit Vanhellemont is about more than just apples and pears,” says Mario. “In addition to fresh fruit, we also sell farm and regional products such as jams, juices, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. In our farm shops in Meensel and Tienen, you’ll find a wide range of products, including fresh produce from both our orchards and the local region.”
Growing fruit with care
For the family, it’s not about harvesting as much as possible, but about quality. Every apple and pear has to taste great. That’s why they take great pride in the positive feedback they receive from customers, suppliers, and consumers who appreciate their work.
In recent years, the work of a fruit grower has not become any easier. Unpredictable weather conditions and changing regulations have made it more difficult to plan ahead and continue investing in the future.
“The blossom season and the harvest remain the highlights of the year. But the quiet moments in the orchard are still very special too,” Mario explains. He especially enjoys the early mornings when everything is still calm in the fields. “Without a phone, connected to nature, and enjoying a moment of peace. That’s what we do it for.”
Choose local fruit
Mario also has a clear message for people buying fruit: don’t look too far from home. Belgium has outstanding fruit growers and ranks among the world’s best in apple and pear production, both in terms of quality and sustainability.
You should buy fruit the same way you buy fresh vegetables: as fresh as possible. Thanks to high-tech cold-storage facilities, the fruit can be preserved under optimal conditions. This allows customers to enjoy fresh, tasty, and crisp apples and pears every week.
Love among the orchards
Over the years, two couples have even found love among the orchards during the harvest season.
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