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Prior to the Argentine social and economic crisis of 2001, the percentage distribution in sales of fruits and vegetables at the national level was 70:30 in traditional shops and supermarkets, while in town centers around 55:45, respectively. Today, these values would be maintained even after the temporary fall in the participation of the sale in supermarkets. In 2000, minimally processed vegetables in the supermarkets reached levels of participation almost 10% on the total turnover of fruits and vegetables sector and after the crisis decreased approximately to 5%. The aim of this study was determine the general trend of the market and supply of minimally processed vegetables to detect the consumer preferences. Fifty-eight branches of supermarket chains located in the Federal Capital and Buenos Aires surroundings were sampled. The products were selected considering historical sales and supermarket shelf areas. Presentation, weight per unit, sale price, sale volume and brands were recorded. The participation of minimally processed vegetables on total sales of fruits and vegetables in supermarkets reached at 8.86%. Sixty one percent of the sales are assembled in 15% of the best placed branches (highest purchasing power of the consumers), 85% of these branches were located in the north of the Capital Federal and Buenos Aires surroundings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews the role of vegetables -- especially fresh vegetables -- in the traditional eating behavior for people living in the outskirts of the city of Buenos Aires. Through qualitative techniques the following items are put forward: a. consumption habits and preferences, b. combinations, c. preparation. By means of the review of this information, the possibility to expand the consumption of products in this industry is put forward, on the basis of the lack of hurdles, both symbolic and of effective access, is determined. There are, however, certain limitations in relation to preparation and information techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]