Amid growing demand for Greek exports in the world’s largest and most sophisticated consumer market, more than two dozen top Greek food producers showcased their products to thousands of buyers in New York last month, America’s food capital.

In total, 29 Greek exporters held more than 3,000 business-to-business meetings at the Summer Fancy Food Show 2023. The trade fair is among North America’s most prestigious trade shows for specialty, premium foods and ingredients.

The Greek national delegation at the fair, which was organized by Enterprise Greece, comes amid strong growth in exports. Last year, Greek food exports to the U.S. approached $650 million − a record high − and tracking the ever growing demand for Greek foods worldwide. In the last four years, Greek food exports to the U.S. alone have risen by 64%.

“The continuous increase in exports of Greek food to the U.S. is significantly linked to the growing recognition and trust in Greek products, as well as the shift of American consumers to a healthier way of eating, and specifically to the Mediterranean diet, with which Greek cuisine is identified,” said Betty Alexandropoulou, Executive Director and Member of the Board at Enterprise Greece.

Known for its quality ingredients and the heart healthy benefits for the Mediterranean diet, Greek foods have seen record demand in the last few years amid growing worldwide attention to healthy lifestyles and foods. This has led to a new export focus for Greek producers. Last month, Greece’s National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives set up a new corporate entity − Cooperative Greek Exports (COGREEXPO) – as part of an initiative promote Greek agricultural products abroad.