ISTANBUL — Watermelon and tomatoes were the most consumed fresh produce items in Istanbul during June, according to data released by the Bayrampaşa and Ataşehir wholesale markets, which supply a significant portion of the city’s fruit and vegetable demand.

A total of 205,049 tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables were traded through the two wholesale markets during the month. Vegetables accounted for 150,498 tonnes, while fruit sales reached 54,551 tonnes.

Among vegetables, tomatoes ranked first with 31,614 tonnes, followed by potatoes, cucumbers, onions, and peppers. In the fruit category, watermelon was by far the most consumed product with 26,003 tonnes, ahead of melons, cherries, peaches, and apricots.

The figures reflect the seasonal shift in consumer demand as warmer weather boosted purchases of summer fruits and vegetables, particularly watermelon and tomatoes, which remain staples of Turkish cuisine during the summer months.

The wholesale market data also highlighted the strong role of Istanbul’s two major produce markets in ensuring a steady supply of fresh agricultural products to the city’s more than 16 million residents.

Source: Patronlar Dünyası/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök