14.12.2025 15:50
The hop shoots, sold in Europe under the name "Hop Shoots," can fetch up to 35,000 TL per kilogram at auctions, while in Turkey, they are often left in the fields during the thinning process. Experts emphasize that the utilization of this byproduct has significant export and added value potential.
The first shoots of the hop plant that emerge in the spring months are considered among the most expensive vegetables in the world in the European gastronomy market. These fresh sprouts, known as "Hop Shoots," have become particularly popular in luxury restaurants due to their short harvest period and limited production.
RECORD PRICES AT AUCTIONS IN EUROPE
The hop shoots that emerge from the ground in March and April are offered for sale at auctions with the first harvest of the season in Belgium, France, and England. The price of this highly sought-after product has reached up to 1,000 euros per kilogram, which is approximately 35,000 Turkish lira, at some auctions. Although prices tend to decrease as the season progresses, it is noted that even at the lowest levels in the European market, many meat products are traded at higher prices.
SHOOTS HAVE NO COMMERCIAL VALUE IN BILECIK
Most of the hop production in Turkey takes place in the Pazaryeri district of Bilecik. However, producers looking to increase the yield of the main product, the cones, cut these shoots that emerge from the ground in the spring under the name of "thinning." The shoots, which are not commercially valued by most farmers, are left in the fields or used as animal feed. A limited number of producers only evaluate this product for home consumption.
SHORT SEASON, INTENSIVE LABOR
Experts cite the labor-intensive harvesting process and the very short season as the main reasons for the high price of Hop Shoots. It is stated that the shoots cannot be harvested by machine and must be picked one by one by hand. Additionally, the harvest period lasts only three to four weeks, making the product rare and expensive.
"TRUFFLES OF VEGETABLES" IN LUXURY KITCHENS
Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe refer to these shoots as the "truffles of vegetables." With their appearance and aroma reminiscent of asparagus, Hop Shoots are particularly preferred in starter dishes prepared with seafood. It is reported that some restaurants offer plates consisting of only a few shoots at high prices.
SIGNIFICANT OPPORTUNITY FOR EXPORT
Agriculture and export experts indicate that if this by-product of the hop already grown in Turkey is evaluated, it could create significant added value. It is emphasized that if producers are organized, a cold chain infrastructure is established, and packaging is done according to European standards, Hop Shoots could become a new export item for Turkey.