At Fruit Attraction 2016, Coolbergen displayed radishes with no leaves, perfect for the fresh-cut industry.
This is why he decided to introduce radishes without leaves, destined mainly to the processing industry. "Initially we did everything by hand, so labour costs were double. We therefore introduced machinery that can process up to 10 tons of produce."
The fresh-cut industry requires clean produce. "A client that packages julienned radishes needs produce that is uniform and easy to process."
"Spain is not a great market for radishes, as it imports more than it produces. Spanish clients - mainly supermarkets - require radishes with no leaves." The same can be said for Italy.
In winter, radishes are grown over 3 cycles on 60 hectares of greenhouses. "The other 3 cycles are obtained in another 20 covered hectares. We then apply green manure in summer, so as to recharge the soil with nutrients."
When Coolbergen talks about innovation, he is also referring to packaging. "Plastic 12-radish cones have been in use for 40 years. We need to find alternatives to help consumers get to know and recognise the product."
Contacts:
William Coolbergen
sole administrator and sales manager
Email: william@ortolanda.com
OrtOlanda
Via Migliara 45
04010 Borgo Grappa (LT)
Tel.: +39 0773 209087
Fax: +39 0773 209317
Email: info@ortolanda.com
Web: www.ortolanda.com