ORGANIC APPLE CULTIVATION IN THE EUROPEAN UNION – A CURRENT SITUATION OF CULTIVATED AREAS

Apple cultivation is one of the most important, both worldwide and in Europe. This paper aims to analyze the literature and identify current trends in Europe with regard to organic apple cultivation. Data analysis shows an upward trend in cultivated areas, highlighting a growing consumer interest in organic apples, which are produced in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. Among the countries that grow organic apples, France stands out for an area between 25.65% and 28.76% of the total areas dedicated to this crop in the European Union, while Romania ranks sixth, with approximately 3,883.67 hectares cultivated. Key factors contributing to the development of organic apple cultivation include support policies from the European Union, market demand, and favourable climatic and geographical conditions.