In the heart of Dutch farmland, agricultural smells are common. Cow dung and tomato scents are part of daily life. But in Hellevoetsluis, near Rotterdam, a converted tomato greenhouse is making headlines for a different reason: cannabis cultivation. Despite being a legal operation under the Dutch government’s cannabis trial, the greenhouse has faced complaints about odor. But is the smell truly unbearable, or is it just unfamiliarity with cannabis farming?
Max Schreder, Commercial Director of CanAdelaar, one of the ten authorized cannabis growers in the Netherlands, believes the complaints stem from a lack of familiarity with cannabis cultivation. “People aren’t used to the smell,” he says. “But we’re doing everything by the book.”
CanAdelaar’s operation is fully legal and tightly monitored. Every plant, bag, and transport is tracked under the Dutch government’s strict regulations. The company, which initially wasn’t part of the cannabis trial, joined after two other growers dropped out. “We were late to the party,” Max admits.
The greenhouse, originally used for tomatoes, was rapidly converted for cannabis cultivation. Greenhouse builder Horti XS led the transformation, working with 60 people at a time to prepare the facility. Today, the greenhouse spans two hectares and is filled with cannabis plants. Advanced air filtration systems, supplied by VFA Solutions, have been installed to tackle odor issues.
At the start of cultivation, odor control wasn’t a top priority. But after complaints from neighbors, CanAdelaar invested heavily in air filtration systems. “It has cost millions,” Max emphasizes. “But it’s worth it.” The company has installed 72 air filtration units, with plans to add more. The systems use ASPRA® technology, which removes gases, odors, and even pathogens from the air.
Vincent van Baaren of VFA Solutions explains, “Our technology is sustainable and effective. It can save up to 80% on energy costs compared to traditional ventilation systems.” The system is also designed to work in humid greenhouse conditions, unlike HEPA filters, which can clog easily.
CanAdelaar handles every step of the cannabis production process, from propagation to packaging. The former tomato greenhouse has been transformed into a state-of-the-art facility with air-conditioned compartments for drying and processing cannabis. The company employs 100 people year-round, significantly more than when it grew tomatoes.
The cultivation process is carefully managed. Plants start in a long-day treatment compartment, where they receive natural sunlight and artificial lighting. Once ready to flower, they move to a short-day treatment area with blackout screens to simulate shorter days. After harvesting, the cannabis is dried, processed, and packaged for delivery to coffee shops.
