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Do you know the difference between jam, jelly, and preserves in Germany? 🤔🍓


For most people, it’s all the same… but legally in Germany, it’s definitely not the same. Not only because the products taste different, but because German legislation regulates this by law.


If you're trying to buy what is commonly known as "jam" in a German supermarket, you’ll look for it in vain—not because it doesn’t exist, but because in Germany, something can only be called "Marmelade" if it contains at least 20% citrus fruits. Everything else is labeled as "Konfitüre" or "preserves."


Now take a close look at the photo. You probably thought they were jams, right? Well, they’re not. What you see are preserves.


The Konfitürenverordnung (German Jam Regulation), based on the EU Council Directive on jams, jellies, and marmalades and chestnut purée, sets standards for fruit content and allowed ingredients in jams and jellies. As a consumer, it’s important to know that when a label says “Konfitüre extra”, the preserve must contain at least 45% fruit, and “Konfitüre” must contain at least 35% fruit. There are exceptions for certain fruits—for example, currant preserves must contain only 35%, and quince preserves just 25% fruit.


Why is this crucial for exporters?


Because in markets like Germany, labeling rules are strict, and even a small mistake can mean barriers or issues—even when trying to find customers. If you're in the food export business, this is no small detail. In some countries, the difference isn’t just in texture or fruit content—it’s in regulation that defines what each label can carry.


According to Statista.com, three-quarters of Germans eat breakfast every day. On the table, you’ll commonly find cereal, eggs, bread or rolls, and preserves. Jam—or rather, preserves—is the best-selling breakfast product of them all: the retail food sector generated around €539 million in sales in 2019 alone.


The monthly consumer price index for jams, preserves, and jellies in Germany rose 33.4% from 2020 to January 2025. This could be a big opportunity for producers looking to enter the market with a better price point.


So, when you think about selling in Germany, are you considering these details? 🌍✈️

🛑 Want to learn more and successfully export to Germany? 🛑


Join a free talk, where we’ll teach you how to adapt your product and strategy to win over the German market. You’ll learn about certifications, packaging, consumer expectations, and more. (Spanish language)


📅 Date: 22-05-25⏰ Time: 16:30📍 Format: Online



Don’t let a lack of information hold back your sales. See you at the talk! 🚀


The LumenExp Team


Eventbrite

 
 
 

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