Data and trends of the EU food and drink industry 2006
4/01/2007

The food and drink industry is the largest EU manufacturing sector and one of the major pillars of the European economy. The sector produces safe and high quality products to serve consumer needs and to respond to changing consumer demand. Europe's cultural diversity and its tradition are the foundation of the EU food and drink industry and a key asset for further industry development.

This brochure gives an overview of the structure of this industry, evaluates trade activities, highlights the major role of the EU food and drink industry on global markets and provides key data on R&D and innovation developments. Finally, it contains consumption figures and habits as well as the ranking of leading international food companies.

The data presented covers the whole food and drink industry (as defined in division 15 of the EU activity breakdown). These are a compilation of indicators taken from Eurostat databases as well as those received from our members. Other sources such as OECD and World Bank have also been used.

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